The strange thing about the Phoenix metro is the East Valley is starting to run into barriers and having to expand southward but unlike many cities that have this problem like LA or San Francisco it isn't the oceans or mountains that block development but the native american reservations. 

When Investing in a new city, you definitely want to consult with a native from that area.

I'm a native Kansas Citian and have enjoyed investing in Kansas City for over 15 years.

This deal has to close in 7 days so it may be interesting to see how they react.

St Albans is just far enough away that it tends to react to market conditions in it's own way, but as Burlington continues pricing people out the market, Franklin County in general is showing signs of growth.

We pulled everything out of the front and side front except the larger foundation plants, landscape fabriced it, dripped it, and planted some california natives... 

What will separate you from the rest is how you react to those mistakes.

@Keifer Zhang I think you should get with a realtor, property manager, or even a local native to narrow down an area.

Most investors react to what they see affecting them, going on in their market.

I'm an agent here and a Fayetteville native.