The lake is an underrated asset, there is tons of culture, and the people are generally wonderful.Most of the facts listed in this article are true.

Reputation, real Training and support as well as how you “ fit “ in the culture will be key in your decision making  I would truly consider half a dozen or so from what you paired down through some  due diligence.

There is good potential for value-add opportunities in a metro market with a diverse employer base.

Diverse - lots of foreign students cos of Johns Hopkins music school.

There is a lot of diverse housing stock in Yonkers and in my opinion, lots of opportunities to implement a value add strategy!

Part of me thinks it is unnecessary due to the safety and culture of the neighborhood but at the same time, I am aware that it is opening me up for the possibility of a lawsuit. 

And the downside is you visit a wonderful new country and learn about a new culture;) Recently I've bought property in markets where the local currency is heavily devalued against the dollar.  

Avoid 100% occupied.Population: Net influx of population in the metro area over the past 20 yearsEmployment: At least 3 major diverse employers within a 20-mile radiusCap Rate: We don't buy on cap rate, since we are looking for upside post value-add. 

I'd look at population growth, economic drivers, diversity of employment, landlord friendliness, etc. 

I have a diverse background in real estate, having served as a commercial acquisitions analyst, constructor, investor, and professional real estate copywriter.