The key is getting (I mean the most important part) a good agent or boots on the ground. 

The key word here is partners! 

Well I guess its not true what you are telling me, we paid you thousands to help us meet the tests for REP for my wife and you did not deliver. 

Getting the system/team in place will be key once you start to scale with STR in your market.

I definitely would pay attention to key macroeconomic stats such as population growth, job growth, and where companies are moving/developing.

Several key factors contribute to Buffalo’s sustained real estate prominence:1.

My point being, having a reliable team here is a must.Dialing in on what class neighborhood and what kind of property you want is as key as your metrics, especially given that much of our housing stock is ~125 years old --- at least in the city.

Important that you follow the necessary steps, deliver 5 day notice etc. 

Two other key aspects that worry me about Japan are (1) generally depreciating values of real estate and (2) generally decreasing rents. 

Staying flexible and partnering with a skilled property manager or agent would be key to achieving long-term success.Good luck!