@Ian TurnerJust a few observations.....Typically the town you are describing is one that I would stay away from investing in ( very rural and employment depends on one company).

My parents were landlords (SFRs and a fourplex) when I was growing up, so I observed it throughout my youth - and painted more than my share of rentals.

And that was for the news crew to observe of course - more "made for TV".

Interesting observation, I think agents use the term as a marketing ploy simply toget your attention.

I do not have any exact numbers but when I am in that area I have observed consistent expansion of the housing, retail and highway infrastructures.

No rant... just an acurate observation about the challenging state of affairs in our "capitalistic" economy.

Great observation, as I had this same problem today in the Local Forums

I’m sure that was an experience in itself, and while it surely won’t make up for the sting of $ flowing the wrong way, I’m sure there will be lessons learned here that can’t be learned without doing.A couple observations: $100 in pro forma cash flow is more than adequate  on a 70k house.  

That doesn't make you a good guy or a bad guy, it's just an observation.

Hopefully these observations have been at least a little helpful.If anyone has any tips to add to this thread or any questions let's talk!!