After buying and selling over 1,000 properties for my own inventory, hundreds of which came from REOs,HUDs, VAs, Tax Sales and Sheriff Sales, I have some experience in this area.1.

The land is on a 20-year lease.Being in WA state, options are limited in my area and homes prices are somewhat out of reach. 

The area was a little rough and tenants were hard on the units.

I've been searching on Zillow to see what's out there and in what condition—targeting Class B in a decent area with a focus on cash flow.

Given your background, especially with your general contractor's license and hands-on experience with rehabs, transitioning more into real estate seems like a natural progression.Here are a few thoughts:Potential of Real Estate vs.

My name is George, and I'm located in the D.C. area.

I've been looking into areas in Wisconsin and North Carolina  (I chose these areas  because I have people there who could potentially help me out in the area) but all market ideas are welcomed. 

long term rentals are a fantastic long term investment. 

one almost hit the house after a storm.3. make sure when you run the numbers on Texas properties to account for the increase in property taxes year over year.4. before you buy in a new area be sure you establish some kind of relationship with an electrician, plumber, handyman, gardener, roofer Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Great way to gain experience and ensure you're an expert in the local area, whether its your college town or your hometown that you intend to operate your business in.