I have a great system in place to make some good money in real estate out there.The main thing I am looking to do right now is connect with some agents in Dallas to look for really good deals and also learn more about the different suburbs of Dallas to start analyzing trends and flow.

Yes, interest rates are still at a historic low, almost 10 years after they trended down below the average for the past 100 years. 

Take a look at other rentals in your area and see what the trend people are installing.

I'm wondering what other cities this trend is in the beginning stages of, as the west side of Denver is largely tapped out and I'm looking to diversify outside of Old Town Scottsdale as well.   

.)- Median Rents by Number of Bedrooms- Unemployment Rate- Employment Sectors Percentages- Number of Building Permits Issued- Foreclosure Rate- School Ratings- Crime StatisticsWhen you consider all the variables listed above you will be better able to judge a locations tenant quality.Also take into consideration the direction in which each of these market indicators are trending.

Who cares if they have the income to pay and can get someone to "recommend" them as good tenants - if their credit report shows a history of paying late, they'll likely continue that trend when it comes to paying your rent...

Considering the recent trends that everyone backing out on deals, etc. anything would help and appreciated.

If you can stomach the area for a few years, its clear that its trending up.

Rentcafe.com allows you to put in a city and state, and then click on "Rent Trends" in the top banner, and tells you how much rental rates have changed on average, year-over-year (along with other information).

This will help you gain a lot of experience quickly and you can see the best trends and the way to manage your own properties.