Once you do that add demographics and that should narrow your search.

I am doing some research on the market in my area which is the NY/NJ tri-state area to determine smaller demographics that are best places to invest in at the moment.

That’s why I would focus in areas with strong demographics.

Personally, I prefer Indy and KC because of their strong economic and demographic fundamentals on top of good cash flow.

Population Demographics Tenant Type (A,B,C,D,F) Acceptable Rents & Average Home Purchase Prices Market Industries & Development Determine Major Industries supporting population Research new builders coming into area Leverage RSS feeds and Google Alerts to get updates Investment Criteria Based on Demographics and Market Research determine IDEAL Buy & Hold and Flip Criteria Questions: How to the Pros perform market analysis?

Talk about a vase difference in topography, pace and demographics!  

IMO, the best areas to invest has demographics that you're familiar and comfortable with. 

Those are two of the best cash flow markets in my opinion due to the fact that they are very affordable but also have strong economic and demographic trends.

Granted that 10/10 school ratings on great schools may imply a good area but you have see overall whats driving the growth in that area, how are prospects of the area in general, what kind of population growth has happened in the past year, is it mainly owner occupied area or renters area, the demographics, is the area over developed for its demand, etc.

I wish there was a tool which can look into age/condition of the house, locality, demographics etc. and predict all the cost components such as vacancy, maintenance with a high confidence.