Has it developed much in the last 5 years? 

Zoning Ordinance ExceptionsSome properties in the target zone don’t meet the minimum lot area or width size requirements under the zoning ordinance, yet houses exist on smaller-sized neighbor lots.How could these properties get approval for development?

(Their offerings are now on a portal called “Swell”)One of the current offerings is a loan to a developer in Denver, offering 11% and maturing in Aug 2025.

I can also see the ends of the Commuter Rail lines being good too...like Haverhill for instance  The Salem/Beverly area is great and pretty pro-development/housing from what I'm hearing.

Hiring a property management company with experience in the markets you're considering can be a game-changer.Have you identified which markets you want to invest in?

The city has a lot of momentum with major developments, population growth, and continued investment in infrastructure.That said, it’s not without challenges.

Like I said earlier, I am new to the game but learning as much and as fast as possible.

The amount of downpayment requirement insures buyers having "skin in the game". 

I am new in this game and here to learn everything.

HUDuser.org is great for vacancy rates, but cross-referencing with local market reports is important for more context.For job diversity and employers, LinkedIn or regional economic development websites often provide insights.