State/local are determined by your state of residence, not the state the property securing a loan you hold, or property you own is located in.  

I can't figure out what the economic forces are in the community driving the high rents and relatively low purchase prices.

@Raphael RamosLending to someone is interest income just like interest income in your checking or savings account - it’s typically taxed at ordinary income ratesI am not sure I understand the question if it’s deductible?

What's the general opinion of BP members about the viability of Smarter Contact SMS marketing?

Sure- get a full time job, buy a small multifamily, live in one of the units and then repeat that process every year for the next 10 years.

The fees are high, and the rate might be a little high.

I have made a Bridge Loan to them on their Pueblo Springs Apartment project--they are passed due in paying off the loan and are not responsive with information to resolve that situation.

It's obvious and a big turn off to smart people (for them, it's anti-marketing). 

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

Meet all the crews, study the costs, learn the areas that have potential.