Most of us fail to realize that, in this market, anyone with a decent economic pulse OWNS they don't rent.  

“Access to housing—particularly affordable housing—is becoming more and more limited, and that’s going to be a real problem for our region” he continued, “we have major corporations and grand-scale economic investments taking place, but fewer and fewer options in terms of housing for the people who are going to take those jobs.

we love it up there and have considered investing but i'm weary of vacancy/economic downturn issues in those little beach towns. i would be interested in hearing your thoughts. 

I graduated from college in 2014 with BA in Economics, did consulting jobs for banks for 2 years plus my previous internships (total 4 years experience).

Education and Health care are cornerstones of properties that many turnkey providers push in the midwest.  

I'm just speculating as it is hard to tell what health issues a 14-year old dog may have.

You thus can negotiate a more favorable deal because the seller avoids waiting longer to sell (could be tax reasons, family / health issues, divorce, variety of reasons that motivate sellers)....think time and hassle.  

Given the social pressures, demographics, economic, medical, life long singles (men and women).

I just saw this great 3Q 2016 Economic Overview for Memphis.As the data shows, the economy is still moving ahead nicely in our MSA, which is why I am actively investing here.

That drives up values.You then have the added issue of where do a population that was heavily poor, and even with an economic rebound will only be able to do lower wage jobs anyway.