There is no shortage of people telling the virtues of these  cities, but I am having trouble understanding how to independently research an area to see if it has a good long term rental outlook other than just accepting what others are saying.  

Also, it doesn't seem like you've done a lot of reading in the forums, because there is a deal shortage in DFW.

You could have 100 cash flow negative properties and a high paying w-2 to make up for the shortages each month.

I live in Bend and home prices seem high, but there is a rental shortage and landlords are able to get top dollar for their units.

That would really ding your credit, and, if you have assets, the lender would come after you for the shortage.You could sell, but you would have to bring money to the table to make up the shortage.

Especially if they have other assets.Can you come up with the shortage elsewhere?

I have seen labor shortages and construction overregulation that I never since since starting flipping in 2004.

There is no shortage of electricians, I've had great experiences with "The Wire Ninja" and I've heard positive things about "phases electric". 

Most everywhere has housing shortage, so 2 months with no action means you're overpriced for the market.

I posted some of my investments in my profile to give you guys a better idea of the Montreal market :) - I do think Montreal will slowly** catch up to Toronto due to supply shortages, immigration influx (which won't ever decline since our provincial median age is the worst in the country), + the fact that it's an island puts a building cap on the market.