Lastly, it could be that the bank is going to portfolio your loan at below-market pricing because they want the entire banking relationship (deposits, transaction processing, consumer lending, etc) or simply want the risk (yield).Lots of local and regional banks have been retaining loans at really aggressive pricing recently as the current environment makes this favorable for them.

If you're considering other markets outside Cleveland - make sure to check out Columbus OH.

Are you planning to invest locally in Louisiana, or are you looking at other markets too?

Work with a REALTOR with a solid marketing plan and a network of buyers. :)If you are trying to market specifically to investors, join local investor groups (in person or on facebook).

What has worked well for me is looking at properties that have been sitting on the market.

His knowledge and ability to analyze the market is extremely impressive.

We live in the panhandle (PCB, FL) but are interested in exploring the greater Tampa/Sarasota market!

You would still get the tax write offs, the depreciation, and the market appreciation.  

@Antoine Philidor, vague advice but necessary: network with investors investing in your respective market of interest.

The market has changed; the amount of information available online has exploded.