I like working with lenders who are familiar and reputable in the market you are investing in.

But, that is not always the right answer and you should speak with someone familiar with your personal situation to get advice specific to you.

If you are able to manage it yourself, I think you will get a lot of very helpful education in real estate by spending a least a year or two doing that.You'll be able to work with property managers a lot better if you've done the work yourself for a bit, and it also helps to get familiar with the various laws and regulations you have to comply with as the owner, even if you do have a property manager in place (e.g., the new RI rental registry and associated lead paint inspections/certificates).It's up to you whether you're able to do it, but I think you'll get a lot out of the experience if you can try it for a year or two.

As someone every familiar with Reg A offerings - this is not specific to Rad but anyone looking to invest in these offerings.

You may want to first explore cities that you are already familiar with.Think of cities where you grew up, went to school, like to vacation to or see family.You will have a better idea of what the good / bad parts of town than a brand new city that you are unfamiliar with.Best of luck.

I have our in-house property manager here at Reafco manage my rental and so I am pretty familiar with using it as an owner.

Or just keep renting and saving in San Diego where we're familiar with the area and the market (which could take awhile, while we are probably 3ish years away from investing in a Midwest market).

You'll find the most success in a place you are familiar with and where you can build a solid team.

In this case, get familiar with NYS landlord/tenant law or find someone who is. 

You have to get someone who is familiar with them and would want one.Here is a pic of this style of construction.