Do you want to directly own and invest in real estate, or are you open to indirectly investing in it? 

Yes, you attract more people with an updated look. not sure they pay more, as the previous poster said look at direct competition.

While you can’t completely control who applies to live in your properties, you most definitely can find areas that are popular with students, young professionals, families, etc. 4) just as important as finding the property, you need to have an exit strategy in mind for the property.

Investigate conventional finance, FHA loans, and other programs that can be in line with your objectives.Through networking, word-of-mouth, or direct communication with property owners, take into consideration investigating off-market options.

But I have no clue how the market works and I would like to have someone guide me in the right directions.

Any input or feedback on a direct mail campaign would be greatly appreciated.

Additionally, I'd love to get info on the local meetup - I will send you a message direct. 

If these apply to you, you could save a lot of your capital gains.

:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+, zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680, some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

While you can’t completely control who applies to live in your properties, you most definitely can find areas that are popular with students, young professionals, families, etc. 4) just as important as finding the property, you need to have an exit strategy in mind for the property.