My point is; properties are cheaper in many states like Massachusetts, Idaho and Ohio and from the way I see the numbers the properties have not increased, significantly, for many years and if this trend remains the same then those cheap properties are bad investments.

The travel demand has been trending to rural/rustic/scenic locations. 

Market timing and macro forecasting (economic trends, interest rates, etc) are very difficult to predict.

Even if you plan on self managing, I'd make sure the property works with a property management company so you have a way out if you grow tired of doing it.Do market research so you understand the various trends going on in the area and what types of units you need to appeal to the widest tenant base.

Where do you think would be a good resource to learn about land trends? 

Make sure you know the rents in the area/neighborhood and weather that neighborhood is trending up or down since you look to be from Seattle when doing your numbers. my two cents at least.

HI everyone, So I have noticed a trend among some of my fellow property owners here in Los Angeles, California. 

Given the current strong trend towards electric vehicles and phasing out fossil fuels, is Houston still a good market to invest in?

Do it for all properties of whatever asset class you are looking at and you will start to see a trend. 

What macro trends or statistics do you heavily rely on when analyzing a market?