This research report on Multifamily markets should help: https://www.berkadia.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Berkadia-2019-National-Apartment-Forecast.pdf

That's hard to say nationally and I'm NOT an expert in the Baltimore market.I can relate though as I live in Denver but buy in Southern US.Going big allows you utilize, best in class, 3rd party management and there's no need to be geographically constrained.

Not saying you can do it while sitting on the couch, but one way is to buy stuff like this (listed on the MLS in this case):https://www.redfin.com/CA/San-Diego/3905-National-Ave-92113/home/147880176If you'd like to go through the exercise of penciling this out and posting, I'll share my POV on why a property like this makes sense.

Either someone who specializes in real estate asset protection nationally or a real estate focused attorney in the state where you are investing will be the best place to start.   

Anyone have recommendations on what websites, etc you rely on for up to date metrics on market trends, both locally (I'm in OH) and nationally.

The price point is enticing but if you track the national internal migratory patterns of the US you will see that people are moving out of not into those cities.

Are you focused on lending to investors in certain markets or will you go any where nationally if the deal makes sense? 

I haven't yet talked to forestry service folks in the above counties, but would certainly like to hear from BP Nation if you have. 

The nation wide list suppliers go for quantity over quality and I bet if you concentrate on your local area you can build some niche lists that everyone else is not marketing to. 

The CA housing cycle is always 2-3 x the national level.