I would start here to see that people are coming to the area and not be as worried with why.I'd also confirm what you need to operate legally such as any permit requirements.

After you've reno'd and trended rents, either (i) sell / cash out or (ii) cash out refinance with a long term 10+ year fixed perm loan, and proceed to own/operate. 

I am currently operating my mid-term rental in Hollywood, FL.

WE have to keep in mind also that each state is different in how they operate with regard to public records.. out east in the states were folks still need a title abstractor title work is completely different than the west coast were most title plants have been moved off shore..

You can get that experience by working for a commercial real estate developer / owner / operator

Much appreciate folks,Steve.Steve do you have a real estate attorney that operates in the city to give the proper guidance? 

Are you the operator too?

You may also want to confirm that your estate planning is in order to ensure that someone can seamlessly step into your shoes to deal with tenants in the event of accident or death.

It is seamless in its integration.

For the most part, all of the real estate based operating systems are geared toward property managers, NOT investors.