So someone who is looking purely to maximize potential return (and has unlimited time) is unlikely to find this a good fit. 

I have not started looking in those markets yet, but based on everyone's great input on here I definitely will now. 

It looks like I need an mls Id based on sample code 

I would make sure financially you have a good base and then connect with a local agent

They should be bale to guide you more based on what you are looking for in the area. 

Private Money Lenders (PML): More flexible, relationship-based funding with lower fees.

Based on the data I saw from ABOR the median price YoY (2023 to 2024) was slightly up (around 2%) and the rent was flat to slightly down.

we ran into this in FLA  a few years back when I had 4 starts and I exited that market.. permits  sub base all pretty tough for someone who is not there and already knows the systems hands down and has a devoted loyal sub base.. thats the key in my mind.

If you know your tenant base like you do, then you know which works for them.

Lenders usually determine whether properties are lendable based on the debt service coverage ratio.