Market: Does it have job growth and population growth?

If you find markets that have stable populations and rents you will be at even less risk if your numbers are good to begin with.

How do I know if it is in a good area, low crime, appreciating, increasing population growth, affordability, job growth, etc? 

Added stress and morally I think it's wrong because the pet population is out of control-- Why can't the animal be fixed? 

There is definitely a lot of competition for good deals.There is also still a lot of opportunity due to population and economic growth.You need to stay informed on developments that will make certain neighborhoods more desirable for people to live in.

@Melak Firdo I like this area as it's backed by HNHF.https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/population-health-and-wellness/healthy-neighborhoods-healthy-familiesBasically a Billion dollar hospital wanted to see an area in their front yard to be revitalized.

I’m aware that CT isn’t exactly the most ideal place to invest due to high taxes and the flat population growth.

The market continues to rise and I expect population and property values to double in the next 15-20 years.  

using the criteria of projected population increase, strongest economy, and price to rent ratio for now.

However you need to make sure you also understand how to maintain the entity if you're going to go that route.2) Look at the numbers on the market - employment growth, population growth, rent growth, economic diversity - things like that.