I'm just one data point, but I assume your success will be more dependent on picking the right PM for your needs, rather than picking the "best" of those markets.If I were you, I'd use BP to get a short list of PMs in those markets and schedule some intro calls. 

Bureau of Labor Statistics and Bureau of Economic Analysis have good interactive data.

Ensure they have the experience to guide you appropriately and check references.In regards to the structure of the returns for the investor I would start with the return you would like to offer the investor and work backwards. 

The chart below is Denver focused, but it's interesting data. 

What fields / data do you want to collect?

If you have a home business, ensure your paperwork and tax records are in order.I found previous posts by other BP members on ED that had some great advice too.

I've been pretty good about doing most analysis and communication by email up until a property seems viable enough to walk, but hadn't thought of tracking my computer time to hyper analyze hours spent....probably have burned quite a few figuring out the methods of data collection and analysis.

Here's one data point based on my experience with a SFR home in Harris County (West U).

Also, find out if your city has code violations and eviction data online or otherwise available.

This seems like a more affordable way to get into the market, but  I want to ensure all my bases are covered.