It seems like most all popular screening services like Mysmartmove, Rentspree, etc use the Transunion "resident score" instead of producing actual FICO credit scores for tenants.

SFH are more popular.

Quick thoughts on the markets you're considering:Knoxville, TN: Growing, affordable, and a strong university presence.Huntsville/Montgomery/Tuscaloosa, AL: Huntsville's got tech, while Montgomery and Tuscaloosa have colleges.Asheville, NC: Popular tourist spot, but competitive and pricey.Akron, OH: Affordable, but keep an eye on the local economy.Irving, TX: Part of DFW, so a big market, but prices are higher.St.

I see updates about Pottsville's revitalizing effort every so often and maybe with remote work gaining popularity, inexpensive cities will be on the rise.

Yeah here mixed reviews of investing out of state, from what I hear have to have stellar rock star of a team and property managers you can trust. 

not saying that's you - maybe you're in a strong financial position and ready to rock and roll. 

Like pert near anyone in our bizz you do have bummers each year myself I wholesale them off when i do have to take one over.. or i might sell them on my 0 interest short term owner finance program .. which creates some rock solid paper given the assets usually need a lot of attention at that point.. for the speculation I had 2 long term land plays one paid off after 22 years of owning it for a 100X multiple  yes 100X  :)  And the one i currently have that the new CHIPS act could create a huge win for myself and partners..

New mold resistant sheet rock and proper ventilation (we crack the top of the window when showering and run a dehumidifier) will work well 

This is not a completely popular opinion, but I am partial to the west side of downtown Indianapolis around the Indy 500 track and the zoo. 

Stessa and TurboTenant are popular options.