- trying to make sure that deals are able to actually double my money over 5 years, I know it highly depends on the leadership/syndication team and population growth of the city, but if things slow down, how do I make sure I have a cash flowing, longer term hold property that is has a larger group of people wanting to purchase it later on when it is time to sell the property)Meaning, do you only invest in: Class a,b,or c properties?

I would look at a couple hour drive from any of the major population moves....

Some examples of regions that end up in the top 10:Fastest population growth (Jackson County, Georgia)Highest net migration rate (Horry County, South Carolina)Fastest job growth (Eddy County, New Mexico)Fastest income growth (Mineral County, West Virginia)Fastest home price growth (Grays Harbor County, Washington)Fastest rent growth (Franklin County, Massachusetts)Highest rent to price ratio (Jefferson County, Arkansas)Is this kind of data based searching worthwhile? 

What is the population within 3 or 5 miles?

Smaller population with no major industry.

Has anyone had any major issues with property crime or have concerns that crime or the city's pretty consistent population decline will affect the housing market long-term? 

Columbus, Ohio has seen a rapid growth in jobs and population.

As other markets had job and population loss, people were moving into my market because there were jobs. 

@Randy DulacLike most real estate related investments, it’s all about location. like @Dustin Allen said if you are within driving distance of major population center you’ll be fine in a recession.

As I’ve mentioned before, there has been a long running deficit in new home construction in the US, which needs roughly 1.5 million housing starts per year based on population growth and scrappage (voluntary knockdowns, natural disasters, etc.).