For example, given a sufficient amount of time and to do the due diligence, one can always find the following data: median sales price (MSP), absorption rate, amount of inventory, average cumulative DOM.

If this were me, I would do a great amount of research regarding population growth, current unit absorption rates, city redevelopment programs, employment growth, demographic statistics, etc.

This type of investment requires expert knowledge identifying the areas of the property where value can be added and failure to determine accurate costs, timelines and absorption to stabilization can result in lower or disastrous returns.

A couple of key factors I like to know at all times are the number of available units in my target market, the average price per unit, the last 12 month absorption rate, average vacancy/occupancy rates, and average rents for 1-3 bedrooms.

This will help to confirm if the city is truly in the expansion cycle and based on that One can decide to wait until the end of the absorption cycle before investing in that city.Thanks

The absorption rate in December was a whopping 162%.

The absorption rate for housing and job seekers is massive. 

Each year when there is overbuilding of the supply of rental space without the demand to absorb that space (negative absorption), then the market nears a top.

Anything under 6 months is a seller's market, longer than 6 months is a buyer's market. 6 months is about normal.Another way is to look at home homes are currently on the market vs new versus sold (absorption rate).

Reduces concrete heat absorption.