Quote from @Pat Aboukhaled: Chris, that’s a great question, and it’s one that tends to trip people up more often than you’d think.

I have looked into the Pittsburgh market and have been there before, but just once for a short trip.

But again, dedicated crews drive reno costs down.If you can connect with a flipper in your area (quick out your local REIG) and ask to come along when they scope out a job, you will get more from one or two trips than from a dozen books. 

Taking a trip to the city will also help you get a lay of the land and what you can expect from the specific market you settle on.

PS I finally had a Rueben ball last trip into Cleveland  gut bomb for sure :) Yea definitely some artery cloggers.

I’ve even seen a friend in Austin organize a simple field trip to another city..from what I’ve heard that kind of trip can spark interest in fresh markets.

You should make one trip to the area for 3 days and network in person.

Add AC and you need a good HVAC tech...if they come from the next town, again their availability may be limited and they may charge trip charges.Do you know this town well? 

Got back from our recent trip. 

I would say that 80% of the Building Inspectors I worked with over the years (in SoCal) were on a power trip.