Some deals we have to buy with 30% down to create positive cash flow, but that's the new normal - the alternative is to not buy at all (or to buy junk listings), which is not an option for us.There is actually a lot of evidence for rates to drop (for example from the mortgage banker association), banks are charging one of the highest premiums over the 10 Y Treasury we have seen in modern history and that never lasted very long.

Are all of these success stories from before the modern housing market?

If you do a little research, you will find that multiple Nobel Prizes have been awarded for the development of modern portfolio theory.

Older and larger firms with legacy software systems are having a difficult time competing on service, responsiveness, and value with newer firms or those firms that have made effective investments in more modern technology infrastructure. 

Embrace modern technology: Use property management software or other tech solutions for efficient management.Remember, managing an out-of-state property may require additional planning and effort, but it can be a rewarding investment.

Both have growing populations, job growth and modern, diverse economies which several on your list don't have.

This South Carolina city has held a thriving housing market for longer than a century and is constantly learning to combine history with modern appeal.

Some of my favorites are Foremost, Safeco & American Modern. 

If you're doing modern, then definitely SS or Black...I doubt it makes much difference in rents.

Specifically, Essex Modern City which was a mixed-use development on the Eastside is now up for sale.