You can just answer it without the jazz, and I bet you know a few places right off top of head where people WANT to live, right. 

But for many people, it is one of a number of sources of deal flow, to add to MLS listings, wholesalers, direct owner outreach, auction, etc.Assuming you are specifically talking about sheriff auctions, just make sure you familiarize yourself with the general procedures for the auction.  

I suggest you start out by meeting like minded people and here is a link to a local meetup in the OC: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521/topics/1225233-ocre...Good Investing...

A lot of people spend their time doing this, but it's not a good use of time because it can not teach you anything relevant without seeing each one in person.

.🌟 Pro Tip: Next time someone questions your real estate investments, ask them if they'd turn down an opportunity to buy shares in a company that:Pays monthly dividendsLets other people pay off their investmentOffers significant tax advantagesCan be improved to increase returnsCan be bought with 80% financingBecause that's exactly what you're doing with real estate!

People investing in Phoenix are seeking appreciation.

What you need to learn in your 20s is how professional business works, how to manage people and projects, how to run an organization and how to sell ideas and concepts.

My investments are all in the Twin Cities suburbs, but I have helped people with financing as far north as International Falls :) @Jeff Schemmel who do you know in the Duluth area?

All the people I know who bought there did it for lifestyle.

a lot of people will poo poo this, but I also live in a market where cash flow is low, property taxes are high and properties are expensive (which is a relative term).