As far as economic indicators go, there are 100 cities that are comparable to Dayton...it's a lot like Cleveland in that it had a declining population for 40-years...and now appears to be stabilizing. 

I am an attorney in New York City (non-real estate) looking to purchase single or small multi-family homes in Utah or Maryland (family and contacts in both areas) for long-term rentals.

Check out socketsite.comLuxury condos aren't doing hot in SF and there's some examples on that site that are interesting.I think the key here is that it's specific condos some of which were likely overpaid and now we're seeing true value but it's more of unique situation then city wide trend. 

. #5  Get to know the neighborhood police officers, city officials, and social service organizations in your area.

About 6 months ago I purchased a foreclosure in one of the nicest neighborhoods in the city I live in.

Hi All! I started listening to the Bigger Pockets podcast and dreaming about some real estate investment about a year ago. My husband and I are still on our journey paying off student loan debt, so I figured it would ...

Im planning on looking for a duplex to house hack in the Twin Cities, MN, and I was wondering if I should even bother looking into other loans?

Drive the city looking for dumpsters in yards.

I was born and raised for about 10 years just outside of Charm City. 

*Side note some policies may offer "Repair Cost" settlement which is a nice option that falls in the middle of RCV and ACV and may not require you to insure the dwelling at the full replacement cost estimate.For those outside the major Ohio cities you may have a small stroke hearing someone say to insure it for less than the full RCV.