I'm thinking maybe it would be better to do a trial run of a town first by renting in the area I want to invest in to get a taste of what neighborhoods are the best and how the local market is in general.

I am looking to get into REI, I was originally looking to save for my first home but quickly realized the my tastes far exceed my budget. 

The shoppers want to do the work with their taste.

The house across the street is just now on the market for $374k and about 300 sq feet larger but not as tastefully done.Curious to see what the thoughts are on switching banks (if that would really matter) or somehow appealing the decision or just sticking with the $40k less?  

Champagne taste, beer budget?

NYC is cool, but just way too expensive for my taste.  

Great taste and style!

Do not outfit the property to your taste or standards, it's a rental and should be set up as one.

It'll give you a taste of the real estate investing world.

I attended a 3day seminar/workshop with Real Estate intensive and all I can say is that I paid $2000 for a very special seed and taste for REI that was planted inside of me.