I would definitely check out the Real Estate Events and Happenings section as there are usually several different events for local investors every month, and they're generally great for meeting people involved in different facets of the industry to build out your team.It's certainly challenging to find good deals nowadays in the area--there's a lot competition, and almost everything you'll see on the MLS will be relatively overpriced (and/or gone within days/hours of being posted).

Look at overall layout and function of Kitchen.Baths:  cabinets any sign of mold, general condition, everywhere, any sign of mold, function and condition of shower, tub, facet, sink, toilet, mirror condition?

When investing OOS, trust and communication is vital.

@Rick Baggenstoss Great advice, multi-faceted strategies are always better, plus the student rental space has very heave competition. 

Vitality PM me and I can point you in the right direction for that area.

Theres so many facets to this business that I think best to see what that investor is doing that is working for them and evaluate if thats something that will work for your personality and business model.  

As people that depend largely on the poor to pay their rent (or section 8 which means you are beyond poor) proper adherence to the letter of the law in these matters is vital.

Rent analysis is vital in choosing an area but the type of person you want as a tenant is as equally important. 

I am a small time buy and hold investor but would like to get into other facets of real estate investing and greatly expand my portfolio. 

Synonymous to broker or middleman, this concept is prevalent throughout many facets of business.