I do believe that the turn around of the area will inevitably win out, and that the result will be a rise in property values, but I thought I would post this topic to get some feedback, both from locals and out-of-state investors as well. 

Always remember to persist and you will WIN!!!

But if you find the right brokerage, this can be a win-win (for example, I pay a flat rate per transaction, with a modest annual cap - and I routinely save that in commission on one transaction). 

@Eric Siebert Zillow is just one piece of information and it can vary a lot so don't over emphasize it. 

I figure that if I can rent it out for $850 per month, it a win-win for everyone.

I just couldn't make the numbers work after calculating property tax and especially insurance (property, wins, flood).

To get a winning offer as a buyer, you pretty much have to come in non-contingent and that includes the financing.

Good stuff on how to negotiate win-win solutions.

I'd love to start a relationship with investors in St.Louis where i bird-dog properties and we create a win-win for both of us.

It is a niche you can promote in many ways on social media and should be a win for you.