As a person who owns property and services other OOS investors, I know because we are right here in the thick of it with boots on the ground watching this happen. 

People watch DIY network, HGTV, Pinterest and Houzz to be wowed and inspired-WHO DO YOU IMAGINE YOUR TARGET BUYER?

But if for example the cash flow on a LTR in Ohio or Indiana would be equal to the cash flow of a MTR in NC, then I figure why not watch those few markets since you never know when and where you'll find opportunity. 

As you read these books, watch the BiggerPockets podcasts.

I recommend you track those down and narrow your focus down to a particular market, then start evaluating properties and watching what happens while you gain the education.Here's a guide that describes what good cash flow looks like and how to analyze a property.https://www.biggerpockets.com/...

You aren’t prepared to make an offer until you looked at, examined, run the numbers on, followed up on, watched who bought, made money, lost money, etc on 100 properties.  

Kept watching realtor.com for inexpensive houses that didn't need much work which started giving me a feel for what was a good deal.

So its watched pretty closely.

Then watch the YouTube video by BiggerPockets own Dave Meyer where he gives specific data to show which markets are best for investing right now.Today's prices and mortgage rates make it tough, but there are still opportunities out there if you put in the work. 

Watch the YouTube video where Dave Meyers from BiggerPockets explains which markets are best for investing.1.