Houston is finally starting to get some respect as we get a major influx of people coming from other cities looking for lower taxes and better quality of life.

However, double closings are allowed in Minnesota to my knowledge.Also, I agree with Rex in that I haven't found a good wholesaler in MN based on the quality of the lead.  

Use top quality materials, you want this to last a long time.If the spawling is bad, chip off all the loose and soft parts and fill the voids with concrete, then skim coat the entire outside.

But, the simple facts are, people are moving to Texas, and good quality properties will continue to be in demand for both purchase and rental.  

Laura,Tons of forums on this topic on BP (try searches on "screening", etc)...People will and have chimed in with their process and recipe....Also, you may want to also look broadly at the renting and tenant onboarding process (I have a few classic buy and hold landlording books on a blog post, all should be free at library or low cost at used bookstore).....Best of luck!

I focus on higher quality A to B area's these days.

Is this the standard and in your experiences please, what are the advantages and disadvantages of allowing / not allowing petsAlso, what is the best way to screen prospective renters?

Zillow has been making deals with individual MLS so data quality is not consistent between metros.I would use Realtor.com since they are linked to the MLS.

We can make assumptions about price levels, quality of tenants, from there vacancy turnover, maintenance, repairs and expected rent increases.

some of the books you mention are great but are big picture idea books, and you may be thinking ...how do I select a place, inspect, buy and rent it (advertise, screen and select tenants, maintain it, etc).