I have a client in Kansas City, MO that had to make the EXACT same decision a couple of years ago.

Jersey City is hot right now but like I tell my clients the majority of the time I can find them deals that make more sense in Essex County but that depends on the client and what their needs are along with their comfort level. 

Austin was appreciating faster than non-tech cities.

A small mountain city.

I'm seeing lots of my clients have success currently with auctions in Cecil County and Baltimore City. 

The city required the road to be extended a few feet, along with water and sewer.

.: Quote from @Don Solt: Hi folks, As the topic states I'm looking to learn everything I can about the City of Philadelphia and its real-estate market.

Getting that first property is exciting—and yeah, NYC is no joke when it comes to price of entry.Honestly, a lot of people I’ve talked to in your shoes end up finding better opportunities just outside the city.

If they are separate, permits would have been pulled and the city will have records of those permits.  

If that isn't satisfactory speaking at a city counsel meeting about the subject would also seem appropriate.