I'm not sure how useful it is, but this site has some interactive charts you can play with to see how Portland ranks among other markets (and the US on average) in a few key metrics.  

I look forward interacting in the forums and learning all I can from people who have been there!

utm_source=search&utm_medium=internal&utm_campaign=books (books recommended by BPers)Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums, Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze and Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs and webinars Lastly, this site thrives on interactions and as such we encourage two way exchanges and look forward to educational and thought provoking ideas relevant to REI.

It's kinda boring, if my post isn't already. lolYou can put this in Excel as a formula (top of the screen shot), and it'll calculate your mortgage payment; but the best part is when you change any of the inputs, you can see how they interact together.  

Or should my first interaction be through a mailed letter?

I've always found it easier and more comfortable to make connections through face to face interactions. 

Focus on efficient qualification early in your interactions with a seller, and make sure the message you convey when talking to a seller is aligned with the messages you've been delivering on your mailers. 

I just joined BiggerPockets and I am excited to interact with a community of people who don't think I'm crazy for wanting to invest in real estate.

utm_source=search&utm_medium=internal&utm_campaign=books (books recommended by BPers)Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums, Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze and Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs and webinars Lastly, this site thrives on interactions and as such we encourage two way exchanges and look forward to educational and thought provoking ideas relevant to REI.

I look forward to interacting with individuals who have gained experience and are willing to provide some insights on their success.