The first property that I bought was from the state highway department, and both the first and second property that I bought were from word of mouth. 

North of town near the main highways is pretty good too. 

Outstanding liens should always be recorded.

Did you collect any outstanding security deposit from the previous owner?

There is a local primary school (West Hill Primary) and a secondary school in Ottery (Kings School) with both schools rated as "outstanding" by Ofstead.

I have invested a couple times at near market highs and those properties depreciated in the short-term (implied by invested near market high) but today look to be outstanding investments. 

I am not suggesting to buy a home around several vacant houses unless you are going to buy the whole block and change the neighborhood, but buy on the fringe (corner lot maybe or by a major street or highway).

Most car manufacturers are shooting for highway driving to be automated by the early 2020's, and fully automated in all situations by the 2030s.

We bought our first SFR last year (a 2-1,1930s craftsman style) and have had it rented to outstanding tenants for over a year.  

@Elaine Fawcett I've been told by auctioneers that the hidden reserve is generally at least 70% of whatever the total outstanding debt is on the property, if not closer to 100%, particularly in the competitive market most areas are seeing.