They're alway talking about the next deal, investing strategies like flipping, buy-and hold, and anticipating/reacting to the market. 

I'd suggest you start asking other investors in your market for general contractor referrals- people who do quality and reasonable work on rental properties in your market.

I always recommend accepting pets, but you should know how to screen them, monitor them, and have strong policies in place to stop problems early.You should regularly monitor your market on Zillow, realtor.com, apartments.com, etc.

Down the road, this can hurt the investor because you'll find yourself with a unit rented well below market rent when its time to sell.

The trend is also fueling mergers and acquisitions within the industry, such as Circle K’s recent bid to acquire 7-Eleven.These global real estate updates reflect a dynamic market adapting to new challenges and opportunities.

Any tips for where to look or any one have example rehab templates?

I just say" (I have done over 500 in my market this way) Hey Christie, I need insurance its vacant and we are doing a reno.

Is counting on appreciation the only strategy in a market like this, or are there points of view?

I am leaving out cost to build and sale price because I am strictly looking for any actual data or reference on the component itself which should give me a base line and hold true in most markets. 

Do you invest in the Cleveland market as well?