My tip would be to buy properties in desirable vs "affordable" areas.

Some will do but they tend to be far and few in between and the terms are not very desirable at all.Another options is to take down the properties with a bridge loan. 

I understand the desire of some people to have paid off houses, but you need to remember it is never really “free & clear”.

One metric they provide is new construction sales, which I can use to calculate % of total sales and see whether that value is trending up or down.My question is, in general is a market more or less desirable if there are a lot of new builds hitting the area? 

Asset class, price point, distress vs turn key, cash flow expectations/desires, etc.

However, most lenders have no desire to deal with that which is why they work with experienced and proven investors they are confident will drive the project to its finish. 

Feel free to connect with me if you so desire and let me know what works with your schedule for a chat.  

Location is key, there must be paths of progress in and around the buildings which will hopefully allow the property to stay desirable for renters.

The location and access to amenities make it a super desirable area so you need to keep an eye on inventory and competition.

No problem getting other applicants as very desirable but terrible time of year.