I have been told that you are supposed to get similar properties within the neighborhood that have same or similar square feet, bed and bathrooms that have sold within a 6 month period.

I was at a HUD round table in Denver with the head of the Denver HOC and a few upper level people from Washington.

I couldn't stop listening once I started (I'm already on my second round ha ha). 

Do any body know or can steer me towards some areas close to New York City that is promising to get my feet wet..

You should attend the local REIA's down here and start getting your feet wet!

Residential you have to average out for the highs and lows.I am in commercial working with investors so it goes year round.  

I was searching around today and notice a mobile home community that had a double wide for sell 4 bed and 2 bath, good condition 1,850 sq feet, w/ appliances asking 23k.  

Up to this point in time I have focused my attention on wholesaling since it is in my belief the easiest way to get your feet wet in real estate investing while learning other techniques to implement and grow your net worth and residual income. 

Need the location, typical comps, and property info(square feet, beds and baths, land, etc.) to make a remotely accurate ARV. 

It sounds like you have a great work ethic and once you get your feet wet, I am sure you will find success.