I'll actually spend time in the markets that I'm consider and literally just network with other investors and seek out people who are knowledgeable about the market.That said, some of the data sources I like when looking at rental areas:census.govcity-data.comzillow.comzilpy.comLocal chamber of commerce sites - can provide information about business/job/wage growthLocal real estate associations (members of NAR) - can provide information about local housing stats, housing supply, etc.

There has been a lull since January 2023 to nowI think some NAR group researched that the Jacksonville Market had no growth / small negative growth in 2023.That is expected given the high growth in Jacksonville from the prior 10 years.I think the first 1/2 of 2024 will continue to be flat / negative.

You may have to join the NAR, which also comes with a fee.Most people end up spending at least $1,500 a year in their pursuit for a real estate license.3.

I understand a court found NAR members have been cheating sellers for years.

If you have an issue with a PM who is also a realtor you can not only speak with their broker of record but also give some feedback to NAR or their local brokerage.  

You will have to become active and join a firm (affiliate) where you'll have oversight, and if you want keys to the kingdom so to speak, you'll have to subscribe to your NAR MLS, perhaps your commercial board, and all the memberships your firm requires. 

Is it true that the NAR is effectively operating as a cartel?

Zillow was always biased toward realtors, but by allowing owners to list their properties on Zillow, Zillow also represented threat to the monopolistic position of the NAR – it was in a way potentially eroding NAR’s stronghold on the market.

You will have to become active and join a firm where you'll have oversight, and if you want keys to the kingdom so to speak (unlock doors/show property) you'll have to subscribe to your NAR MLS, perhaps your commercial board, and all the memberships your firm requires.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) last year For Sale By Owners (FSBO) properties in the US sold for 26% less than those listed with a licensed agent.