I would consider getting 1-2 deals on market before you purchase off-market.

Rules vary significantly, and you need to be aware of licensing, taxes, and any restrictions.Local Market: Analyze the STR market in your target area.

Having a problem tenant and dealing with eviction could happen in any market.

Cincy and Dayton are great markets.

Local REIA groups and meetups (check Meetup.com or BiggerPockets) are excellent for connecting with both new and experienced investors.I’d be happy to grab coffee and chat about the market or share insights.

We now invest in the Detroit market place where we have established a great team on the ground and are finding properties with great numbers.

Look for motivated sellers off market and market via cold calling and or direct mail, geofencing, advertising and the like.A good wholesaler is as @Ericka Parrott mentioned, direct to seller, did good underwriting and can deliver an actual "Deal" whether buy and hold or flip. 

Quote from @Brendan Jones: For the homes, and or properties that you will use as a primary or a rental property one big thing I look for is infrastructure in the area, extrinsic value (I.e. hospitals in the area, schools, and job market), and the last thing is creature comforts for people (I.e. is a store to get groceries 1 hour away or 2 minutes away).

Then to find inventory, you need to search out, i.e. network, and find out who is creating these type of notes or you help people that may have an interest in seller financing how to create a note that is marketable to the secondary market.

Our market is somewhat shifting, but it is still showing signs of thriving, with many opportunities for growth.