Are you simply betting on the ability increase rents faster than expenses might increase?

Appreciation is NEVER guaranteed and betting on it is a like playing a lottery ticket.

K. you're probably right, 500K isn't an indication of either and I'd bet in some parts of MO, that could be very true, however, not in little old SW MO, not saying everyone is that smart, just smart enough to get good advice. :)

Use charcoal filters on your face mask; I bet the smell is less than amusing.

So using that one you could identify which areas were built using which materials.I know that doesn't directly answer your question but I'd bet there is a table somewhere that lists the codes and what type of area or material they corrospond to.

Commercial is not stuff so you can lock them out and than keep all of the items in the store for payment and breakage of lease.I bet if you change the locks and enforce the lease to the fullest extent of the law you might see a huge change in their attidudes

And I bet the best way to find out who's awesome in any given area is to ask other investors.

Have gone through it and while possible they (banks) will want a history on these properties.IMO the best bet is to buy some (whatever type you decide after research) with cash and see how you like the business.

Do you have any other suggestions or any ideas as to how I might determine if where I'm looking seems to be a god bet?

I bet mortgage brokers are even more excited about owner financing and lease option agreements!