And sounds like a good set of options you are looking at.Here's some data and visualization on recent trends in some of the markets mentioned here.

Study every deal, know the comps, and learn the trends.

I think what you're really asking is how to identify good value areas where rents may be trending upward but the prices still remain relatively lower.An important metric is tenant household income to rent ratio.

There is a growing trend of apartment owners investing in submetering systems for water as these have gotten more affordable.

However, the suitability of buying and renting out a single-family home in Richmond can depend on various factors, such as market trends, rental demand, and property values (similar case with all markets, really.)Chatting with a local agent in the area can provide very helpful insights into the market, data, and specific neighborhoods.

What trends are local real estate investors in the Greater Nashville area currently seeing or interested in?

The rental market is already showing signs of recovery:Spring Is Coming: Historically, the rental market picks up momentum in the spring as tenants prepare to move during warmer months or ahead of the school year.Early 2025 Trends Are Positive: In just the first week of January, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in rental applications, suggesting pent-up demand from renters who delayed their searches in November and December.What Landlords Can Do NowTo make the most of this recovery, consider:Refreshing Your Listings: Update your photos, descriptions, and pricing to ensure your properties stand out.Offering Incentives: Temporary discounts or move-in bonuses can help fill vacancies quickly.Being Patient: The market is already bouncing back, so don’t panic if your property takes a bit longer to lease than usual.What’s been your experience?

The analysis also reports that new multifamily development will “remain near the average recorded over the past five years”.Integra Realty Resources’ 2017 Commercial Real Estate Trends Report ranks Pittsburgh #2 on its Top Markets by Multifamily Transaction Volume Based on YoY Change.Pittsburgh’s rental vacancy rate has declined by 25% over the last five years.Pittsburgh is booming with developments (see reference #6), “there is no better place to be a developer right now than in Pittsburgh.

Like most markets, there is a growing trend in the area due to affordability and increasing more things to do. 

Attend seminars, join online forums, and read up on the latest market trends to stay informed.Remember, real estate investing is not without its challenges.