One search will net hundreds of threads about the debate. 

So keep track of expenses related to your search, but if you don't purchase, you can't deduct for them.

At the moment I have no experience, though we are searching for our first property. 

Thank you @Rita Medeiros definitely have been on the search for local meet ups to meet likeminded individuals.

If you're considering a turnkey provider, search for threads on Morris Invest.

I am looking for advice as to if this is a good location to start my search or should i look somewhere else.

In fact, I do the same thing where if I know a tenant's lease is up and they don't want to extend the lease, I'm going to be searching for new tenants while the current one's are still in.

Cleveland, OH has a great market just have to search for deals as investors snatch them up quickly.

Another challenge with Dallas is the 2.72% sales tax...impacts cash flow greatly, plus the rents aren't high enough to support the purchase.I'll keep on truckin' along searching in both markets (Seattle and Dallas) and adjust my strategy for seeking out deals.

I have searched both states and they seem to be a viable option.