I'm not sure what part of the country you're writing from, but here's a few things to consider:If you don't live less than a 30 minute drive from this unit will you be using a management company?

Assignments helped to drive real estate prices into artificially high values, forclosures are on the rise because of adjustable rate mortgages, and the bank is stuck with a property that isn't actually worth as much as they lent on it.

Growth has slowed in entire area.

Ownership investments are also sometimes called growth investments.

Without driving by it and seeing a sign that says its for sale, are there websites or anywhere to look to find land to own?

There is nothingwrong with that either.I've known people who buy an old clunker and fixit up and drive it around.

I think there is a company to the south of my town that offers a yard where you can pick out slabs, many years ago I recall driving by them every time we went on a trip to Myrtle Beach.

From driving neighborhoods to assorted mailouts to sifting the MLS to foreclosure sales, there are tons of ways to find deals.

Big companies (P&G) moving into the area and more and more people commuting to DC are driving home prices higher.  

any changes coming down the road that may suggest growth in the near future?