So what I've sometimes done is pick and choose from their estimate what I want them to do, and what I want someone else to do because I think I can get a better price or better quality of work or both. 

utm_source=search&utm_medium=internal&utm_campaign=books (books recommended by BPers)Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/courses/a-beginners-introduction-to-real-estate-investing (video courses)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)After becoming more knowledgeable and confident take action to snag your first real estate investment deal.Here are some solid tips before buying your 1st investment propertyhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

If you were to choose a more modest lifestyle regarding your consumer spending, you would be able to leave your job substantially sooner....

How do I go about choosing the right city and what data sources do I take advantage of in making this decisions?

Your time here will be well spent.Since you didn't mention an area of interest, I added the below links for the three most popular niches for your to select one or all.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property) http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/01/07/flipping-houses/ (step by step guide to flips)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/courses/a-beginners-introduction-to-real-estate-investing (video courses)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

My suggestion would be that you speak with an experienced mortgage broker,  describe your situation,  and let them help you choose the best financing for you. 

Whether those are rough areas I am unaware of.If you do go the route of investing out-of-state finding a reputable operator is crucial and also choosing the right market aligned with your investment goals.Hope that helps

utm_source=search&utm_medium=internal&utm_campaign=books (books recommended by BPers)Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/courses/a-beginners-introduction-to-real-estate-investing (video courses)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)After becoming more knowledgeable and confident take action to snag your first real estate investment deal.Here are some solid tips before buying your 1st investment propertyhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

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While spending the money probably isn't in the best use of funds for a property in this price range an actual video tour may help.