Based on that number of units I would expect much higher figures - did you buy these buildings all/mostly cash?

As an invetsment-friendly agent (based out of Houston, TX), I’ve seen how the right professional will help you analyze cash flow, manage comforatble contractor bids, and even drive for dollars if you want a broader look at potential comps or deals in the neighborhood.

I want to be able to find potential markets/listings nationally based on the return.

Paid 12800.based on google mapsThe property is a mess.

Hey @Benjamin Jones -  Fellow Japan-based investor here.  

In almost all investments, you should have a solid base of reliable, cash-flowing, and hopefully appreciating assets before striking out into something new or riskier. 

Do you have a preferred type of property and price range you're looking for in general (knowing the costs can be different based on they market)?

Real estate is so localized that most federal based policy changes don't have massive influence.I can see him (semi-)privatizing Freddie/Fannie.

Start to evaluate deals based on the income approach and you'll do much better long term investing. 

Those tend to be the neighborhoods that are gentrifying.Unique stuff to Pittsburgh I would say is don't go based on zip codes since one zip code can be composed of multiple different areas/neighborhoods.