The rents is a tricky thing, because yes a person can really get themselves in a bad spot if there using assumptions exceeding tenant demographic capacity of affordability, and just hoping things will improve.

As the demographics upstate shift (high-income earners leaving, subsidized non-tax payers moving in), there will be a margin call as to how to pay for all of these people. 

Hey @Michael Dubas, I can’t say much about Scranton, but I invest in Birmingham and think that the city's affordable real estate, appreciation potential, and strong rental growth rates could make it a good fit for your budget and investment goals.While Redfin estimates a median listing price of around $250k, there are still properties on the market today (and certainly off-market deals) that could be purchased for $200k or less.Birmingham’s demographic trends also look pretty promising.

Sometimes you go to a place that you like the demographics for and find out it doesn't fit the research and due diligence.

There are a number of demographic changes going on in Brooklyn that can make a long term buy and hold (I am thinking 10+ years) a great investment. 

You’ll notice a similar but less exaggerated price inflation for residential properties with 4 units or less, as the increased demand is driven by owner occupants who are able to use an FHA or VA loan to buy with less of a down payment than an investor.If you’re looking for returns with some potential upside, I would aim to be in from of the major demographic trends.  

But ultimately, I would say you will want to consult with some retail brokers, who will likely be able to help with creating your merchandising plan and void analyses, as well as systems to understand traffic counts and demographics of the area (if you don't know this). 

I am Bilingual (Spanish), so I may be able to add value to whoever decides to take me under their wing, by reaching this demographic. 

I don't invest in Hudson county but based on an overview of the demographics/city data - I can see why it can be an attractive place to invest in.Data indicates that median home sales price is $152,000.

Is it because of investing in some C or D neighborhood, or more on the macro economic or demographic?