The tenant complained of mold, we investigated, starting with a conversation.

I have listed some helpful recommendations for you:Meet BiggerPockets member in your area:http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you:http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsFind upcoming real estate events: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happeningsForum and Blog rules: https://www.biggerpockets.com/rulesIf you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person.

I have Los Angeles set for a key word alert seeking wisdom from those who do it successfully, so I am not the guy to give you the magic formula for LA investing.  

(let's see if YOU have a key word set for your name!)

The list I get now is much more complete and typically more accurate than what I was pulling on my own.So I would suggest you investigate the time associated with pulling them on your own and the money cost of purchasing one from a reseller (assuming you have that option in your area).

Set up some keyword alerts.

I'd also look in Elsmere, DE.Trulia's crime over lay is a good start for investigating the safety of an area.  

Set up some keywords & listen to the podcasts!

You need to investigate--read, read, read--to determine what you will start out with, and where.

I hear things, I see things and I investigate them and let other people know what I have seen and heard.