Thanks, everyone - I'm looking in a more beachy, more high tourism area.

If not, just move on to a more dedicated agent.

Problem:These properties seem to hit the market with either offers already on them or “under contract.” ( I potentially missed two opportunities that I went to place an offer after 1 day of being listed with ratified contracts).Solution Attempt:- I now have what i believe to be a more knowledgeable agent after moving on from my previous two.- I have canvased the area calling on properties with for rent signs if they had them (approx 12).

I want to take a more active role in screening tenants to ensure they don’t destroy the place.Also, the jersey shore doesn’t really have property managers.  

Like @Charles Soper noted, this is because it attracts a more transient crowd that may also put more wear and tear on the property.  

It might also be a good idea to find a more seasoned investor and see if he'll let you tag along some of his projects to learn the things that you won't be able to learn in a book.

@Irina Belkofer I agree, by zip code is a better option in my opinion, HUD even admits that some areas might be above the market rent rate and some areas might be slightly below market rent but I do believe it's a more equitable policy. 

This is all in addition to of course driving the city and seeing what you see.On a more sophisticated level, the Best Ever Apartment Syndication Book by Joe Fairless (and his podcast) covers pretty well how to do a full market analysis.

I think working with a broker might be a more suitable fit in the future.

Someone uploaded an excel file that list the major components and life spans in the tools section that will give you a more accurate number.