I have some associates from an investment group that wanted to scout the area a bit more so I'm attempting to educate myself on the market. 

Do not invest in any city on Neighborhood Scouts' list of the 100 most dangerous US cities.Low operating cost - High operating costs can turn what appears to be a profitable property into a money pit.

Any suggestions on who to go scout out the property?

Do not invest in any city on Neighborhood Scouts’ list of the 100 most dangerous US cities.Low operating cost - High operating costs can turn what appears to be a profitable property into a money pit.

There are several good options, but I use neighborhood scout. 

Wikipedia✅ Low crime rate: Never invest in any city on Neighborhood Scout’s 100 most dangerous cities list.✅ Low operating costs: Good indicators of a pro-business climate include:Property taxes: State Property Tax Rates - Rocket Mortgage.State average insurance cost: Insurance - ValuePenguinState income taxes: Tax Foundation✅ Low risk of a natural disaster: The cost of homeowners insurance is the best indicator of the likelihood of a natural disaster in an area.

I therefore decided to see what neighborhood scout showed for the long term (since 2000) for each of these cities.  

I've got the pocket neighborhoods book and study plans from Ross Chapin and have been scouting land parcels in the area.

We have taken two scouting trips and have connected with a great Realtor who has been very helpful.

That may seem paranoid to some but in this day and age, almost anything is possible so as the Boy Scouts say, “Be prepared.†Let me give you an example of why this is or could become important.