.- Once I had my narrower list, I dug into census data to look at job and population growth, net migration, diversification of the local economy.

@Ryan RogalaAs a added suggestion , with that capital amount, you may want to consider investing with a real estate flip company or a fund that will give you diversification rather then one property.

Here, I offered additional value by bringing diversification for that investor.That said, the push/pull still exists and it always has.

An investment like this might just be a point of diversification, akin to investing in dividend paying stock in a strong company (like MO).

Not yet, but now I can create a Real estate Business that generates multiple streams of income without having to do too much diversification for 'income streams'.

I'm at a bit of a cross road, and thought I would seek out some sage advice from the more seasoned individuals here on BP.Goal: Trying to increase my credit scoreCurrent stats: (score 709 according to Equifax via mint)2 credit cards (avg 11% or less monthly usage on credit line)-one account was opened in Jan 2016 the other in Jan 20175 total inquiries on my Equifax reportAverage age of credit is 11 monthsNo debtNo additional loan history ( I've heard debt diversification helps boost your credit?)

REITS can give you more diversification in that they are holding more properties.  

We are currently a bit more keen on Dallas from a diversification perspective, clustering strategy and believe north Dallas is exceptional from a market perspective (job, pop growth).  

Ask any of the multitude of gurus.I agree with the diversification, but in any case, have some understanding of what you are investing in, the risks, and how much involvement it will take on your part. 

It's my very amateur version of diversification.