However, the whole East Coast is at risk of hurricanes, the midwest tornadoes, and west coast mudslides and Earthquakes, so to me there is no really safe area. 

I look at these projects as I move through the markets I work in  out east  MS AL OH MO etc etc.. and especially MS you look at a project that was built 5 years ago and its run down and no pride of ownership on 80% of them and basically just crap.  

I am one of the few that has made a living doing sub 75k loans we just do ALOT of them As for Development I have funded entitlement projects in Orlando  and Atlanta and currently doing 3 in Virginia just a few minutes East of Dulles these are high end REsi projects pre sold to Toll  and one to a large regional.

I'd recommend considering the East Bay.Here are my random thoughts: no flipping unless you're experienced.

We like the South East, as well as mid west markets.  

If one wants to invest in Jackson MS it can be done basically in the North west areas North of 20 and East of 55.. thats the safety zone and then you have a few pockets like Fonderen etc.

Hey All,We are looking at purchasing a deal in the east valley of Phoenix, Arizona in Mesa.

But I like the market in the East Coast.  

The downside to the east coast is that looking at properties and meeting with people takes time and effort at a minimum 2-3 day trip.

Hello,I am interested on thoughts about the current real estate market in Peoria and East Peoria.