Census and Bureau of Labor Statistics websites.I'd assume that the prices you're seeing are exactly what they are worth or they are worth less until you find more information to show you otherwise.

Not just know a statistic like "Market rent" but knowing the range and what kind of amenities and finishes it takes to be at a specific price.

We started researching growth areas within driving distance, narrowed it down to 2-3 based on other statistics, home prices, median income, biggest businesses there, rents in the area, etc.

I’m not the best with area statistics to back up anything I have, I just know that typically we like to get into an area maybe a little later in the game and know it’s already gentrified.  

I know the guys who are offering me these properties are legit and have a good reputation  in the industry, I just want to be sure to choose the right neighborhoods for rental purposes, or wait for other opportunities in other parts of the city with a better rental market, obviously statistically because at the end of the day nothing is for sure.

They say that statistically there are more claims made when its not owner occupied.I am currently shopping around prices, but what seems odd to me is that there are more companies that provide this landlord insurance.

Residential mortgages in Canada must be amortized at 25yrs or less and mortgage terms range from 6-mths to 10-yrs with the most frequent, but not statistically the best, choice being a 5-yr term fixed rate.  

city-data.com:  This has an amazing amount of detailed statistics about every city I've thrown at it. 

Join the local Chamber Of Commerce or go to thier sight they have local statistics.

Also, what would you recommend in terms of what fix up options get the best return upon sell.thank you for your help Ohio, and anyone else who wants to chime in I would greatly appreciate it, as I am trying not to be part of the statistic of those who lose on their first deal and then never try again.