Easy to remember, it doesn't spell anything unusual, and when I hand it down to my kids, it'll mean something to them

You are right to be skeptical of their comment regarding it being unusual.

I have been researching fair housing and am a little uncertain about some of the rules.

Lending standards are significantly tighter and there are many fewer marginal homeowners in possession of homes now.The Great Recession was more likely an unusual confluence of events that worked to the benefit of rental properties.  

Wise: probably not, unless you are really good or come across an unusual situationfor more discussion see also: http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/93/topics/1439...and several other recent threads

We are in an extremely competitive market, and it's not unusual to see a lot of offers on distressed properties.  

There were also some unusual weather issues in other parts of the country.

I find their technology platform excellent, unusual and cost effective pricing, and great responsiveness.

I've been to both cities a couple of times to scout the areas, and I'm uncertain if they're good places for investing in rental properties.

Small towns have the pros and cons such as they are cheap and there is less competition but also obvious cons such as lower rents and uncertain volatile futures due to jobs coming or going.