Once you've done that, then identify the MSA's that are most likely to align with your goals.

I have emailed and tried calling the agency yet to no avail.How do you knock on the door or even identify the address for properties that are will be sold at the courthouse auction? 

@Jason Yee Yes, you can sell one properties and buy two properties, both properly identified and closed within the 180 days, in a 1031 exchange.The 2 essential rules....Buy as much or more (total) as you sellUse All of the cash received from the sale toward the purchases.

Congrats on identifying your potential investment.

I identify what can be delegated and what task I need to focus on.

Deep knowledge of investment real estate, including expertise in estimating returns and rehab costs.Deep knowledge of the local investment market, including areas and types of properties to focus on or to avoid.Access to a network of service providers for various needs.Highly skilled in selecting good investment properties, especially in a competitive market.Highly skilled in process management and problem solving and deal making in order to bring a property from identification through acquisition, rehab, and property manager hand off.How do you then, from thousands of Realtors in any market, identify a good investment Realtor?

But to say there are better places and ways just means you haven't identified the right strategy for San Francisco.

How do I identify or find what agents work with investors?

Birmingham- 49th largest MSA (Just not enough diversity for us)I don't think you can go wrong in any of the markets you've identified.

Do an exit inspection with the tenant and identify any issues that would impact returning the deposit.