There is no such thing as a "safe and stable" investment in real estate if you are going to be active or passive. you can buy the best property in the best area and have a tenant destroy the place or have it mismanaged that can cost you.Check out the syndication group on how many people were promised "safe" or guaranteed returns and lost little money to everything.

Exploring AZ, TX, OH, and FL makes a lot of sense—those markets are active, and Florida, in particular, could offer unique opportunities with properties affected by recent hurricanes.

I have property here in San Antonio as an active duty member as well and there are over 10k properties listed for rent in the city.

I would be prepared to file for eviction etc. if they are 1 day late on payment, but would not actively be working to get them out if there is not a blatant current violation of the lease agreement. 

I love researching and Following the economic activity of Detroit. here’s a great post I shared recently - that shares insight into why I’m all in on Detroit.  

Look at crime rates, school quality, vacancy rates, and rental demand in those areas.Talk to Local Real Estate Professionals: Connect with real estate agents, property managers, and other investors who are active in the specific areas you're considering.

Listen actively to their needs and concerns.

We are actively submitting LOI’s and interviewing PM’s, inspectors, and insurance agents.

This development, spanning nearly 6 square miles, promises to create thousands of jobs, generate economic activity, and transform the local economy.

I was strongly considering joining before I read this, now I am going to go the hard route, but probably best to just stay active on here and go the extra effort to network with accomplished developers in my area.