While 2013-2014 was the time for rising prices for Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo/Lansing (and still rising) Jackson has just started to see this happen.

@Brandon Turner - those $500 Detroit houses don't tell the full story:)Recently, Grand Rapids was ranked #3 in the nation for economic growth.  

Capital was rapidly pumped into the real estate market.

There are so many DIY channels on Youtube, with their own off-channel websites with step by step guides. http://www.palatinremodeling.com/top-10-diy-channels-on-youtube/I agree that hiring things out is probably a better use of one's time as an investor than doing it yourself, but I'm of the same mind as you to try to do some of this stuff at first because I'm going to do a more traditional buy and hold pattern where I won't be able to acquire properties very rapidly, so it's not like I'd be missing out on deals by undertaking certain repairs/improvements myself.

I'm on the central coast of California, retired and want to invest in real estate, as my iras and credit union account are rapiding declining with inflation, fees and taxes.My idea is to invest in 1 income property, perhaps a SFR, then obtain a 2nd one a year later when the 1st property is stabilized.

You may want to consider Grand Rapids or the entire western shoreline between St.

Evolve seems to be entering the Poconos vacation rental market rapidly; unfortunately, it appears they seem to be driving down the market pricing by trying to capture more market share. 

I think the Midwest has some attractive areas as well, West Michigan ie Grand Rapids is pretty great.

If the area starts to rapidly develop, then investors will experience positive appreciation but need to be mindful of rent control, property tax changes, etc.

I am currently looking for a small bank or credit union in the Northwest Minneapolis area (Coon Rapids, Champlin, Plymouth Area) to open a business account with.