Appreciation, both forced (rehab) and natural (market, time)4.)

I've seen people mention looking at employment rates and projected employment rates, population growth/decline and things of that nature.

I'd encourage you to seek out a larger brokerage that offers strong training opportunities for new agents and try and find a mentor within that brokerage that works more frequently with real estate investors as a supplement to your knowledge. 

Typically more simple in nature because often it's only 1 person operating the software. 

Retire Early with Real Estate- Chad CarsonThis book details many investors who have retired or supplement their retirement with real estate. 

You do not get the opportunity to see the inside of the home or get it inspected or anything of that nature.

You still want to buy the normal hazard coverages (fire, wind, hail, earthquake, or whatever natural disasters tend to occur in your area.)Another difference is that you probably don't need any loss-of-use coverage (i.e. hotel expenses if your house is damaged.)Most residential providers will have a policy that is tailored more towards rental homes in the way that I describe above.

Hence, friends and family is the first natural choice.

Since I am a numbers guy and have found that deal analysis seems to come pretty naturally, based on your comments, it sounds like I should find someone who is already syndicating and help them with their lead inflow.

For me the market is too high to hope for natural appreciation.