I've built a database of owners of this asset class in numerous states to directly market to.

The most obvious element are the vacants; it makes it difficult to sell that block and knocks down pricing for all.

The prices are based on numerous factors. 

I’m not trying to make this sound transactional, but there are so many elements within marriage that can impact a completely different department, and it’s significantly harder to make big decisions when other areas seem off.

Both areas are great but we tend to lean more towards Hammond due to the numerous new developments happening there right now.

Having the ability to amass capital is one of the key elements to getting successfully involved in REI; but it is not a get rich quick venture.

When you get too involved with the generic training( I am not saying do not do this training) the companies offer you will start looking at numerous solutions.  

If I could slightly hijack this (or add one additional element to the discussion)...at what point would you consider a PM? 

To be more successful, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.

Since your interest lies in buy and hold, I added the below links for your review.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)To be more successful, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.