@Bill S. makes some great points -- if it was just about the numbers then we'd all invest in artificial intelligence and analytics and have a bot decide what properties to buy.My thought: I don't think anyone has mentioned it, but you can increase CoC by investing in the property.

I tend to use COC vs is ROI is an evaluation tool.All of these types of metrics are tools, used for specific analytic purposes. 

Being analytical in nature I have to fight against the analysis paralysis when looking at non-performing loans because its easy to find things wrong with them,  but that's why they will sell at a discount. 

My day job is in Data and Analytics. 

I agree with both of you; the internal financial expert can post a debit and credit, and also (perhaps more importantly) partner with you in formulating more strategic portfolio management/performance analytics.

Just something for thought.Sign up for Marcus/Millichap and they have reports of the top metros in the US every year and a breakdown of the analytics.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to where to look for good market analytics?

My day job is analytically oriented, so by nature I won't make a deal unless I'm sound in the numbers; at the same time I've seen it mentioned here numerous times that the biggest recommendation is to start making actions.Hope your week is going well as we approach Thanksgiving, and as always thanks for the advice!

As far as I know, all three have experience in everything from a mop-and-paint to new construction.If you're looking for data support in Snohomish County, I know @Doug M. has been doing a fair bit of work with analytics, might be something you'd want to look in to.As for me, I'm just a small time buy-hold rentals guy, but maybe we'll have a reason to talk business after I wrap up my current purchase, or just shoot the breeze at the next BP meet-up.Cheers, and welcome to the community!

Decide which level of risk you're willing to take (based on your cash position, your personality, your confidence in your analytic skills, and your life goals), then compare properties until you find one with a risk-adjusted return that's HIGHER than your alternative investment options.