@Justin N Yurchak look up citydata.com, the milken report, and Marcus and millichap report. the last 2 are multifamily focused but provide applicable market data for top markets

Census Bureau, Building Materials Data Analytics, Dodge Network, Construction Dive, VIP Mortgage, Cross Country Mortgage, Inland Bank and Trust, KINA, and Paul Giovannoni-Principal and Managing Director of FMI. 

If there's a hole, it may be a red flag.b) sensitivity analysis: I examine all the assumptions, and make sure I can live with the worst case scenarios.c) "Stall and see": if they are getting money over multiple years, and there is no penalty for investing later, I would usually wait so I get some real performance data, versus having to look at theoretical pro forma information.d) Recession stress test: I will not invest in anything, until I subject it to recession level stress and see if I can live with the result.

Im 'reiterating this for one very specific reason.Increase in cost is not synonymous with increase in value.   

The area is not gone up in value in 7 years.

Also, if the property has greatly increased in value since the last sale or assessment, you should double check that what the seller is saying he or she pays in insurance.

It is not glamorous or sexy, but it is invaluable, can help you save some more money will help you call out crappy contractors as you start your own investments. 

I'm always looking for better data. 

As a data provider, I have been toying with the idea of offering blast text packages along with data...I'm curious as to how often investors utilize non-postal marketing methods when hunting for properties to buy. 

Wow this is invaluable information!