I haven't even done an MLS search yet but I'm planning to do that this week just to compare between they and Zillow as we all know how unreliable Z can be.http://www.zillow.com/homes/for_sale/San-Diego-CA/fore_lt/pmf,pf_pt/54296_rid/33.168594,-116.416626,32.46806,-117.785798_rect/9_zm/

I recommend finding a market that has the following: good employment trends (it should beat the national  unemployment rate)job diversity (no one industry makes up more than 40% of the economy - the lower the % the better) good supply and demand - check out the availability of homes compared to the # of people looking (it's called the Absorption rate) a good team that is experienced and you trust (probably the most important because the money is in the execution of the biz plan, not creating the biz plan) 

You expressed an interest in wholesaling and as such I added a guide below.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)To be more successful, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.

Basic pointers I'd recommend is to start looking online at your own market as you're learning the concepts to compare them with your market, and get involved with an investors association down there - If I could it would be my first stop in deciding if REI was the right place for me.Welcome to the community Aaron!

I would say if you are saving $2000/mo in rent from comparable apartments that would be considered a success.

Inflation won't matter in a Cash on Cash analysis, since its purpose is to give you a picture of how much actual cash you are receiving compared to your equity.

To be more successful, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.

In other instances it is best to mix up three methods and compare the prices thereof.As a newbie investor I have begun to use Zillow, but it doesn't seem to be reliable. 

While some of this info is from Zillow, which isn't known for its accuracy, comparable houses in the neighborhood have sold for similar prices.

You already have some tools in your toolbox....no pun intended.Now, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.Ok, now that you have taken your initial step, below are some quick links to get engaged. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/invitesREI books suggested by BPershttp://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?