Working with a strong lender/realtor team who can determine whether a property is appropriate for a VA loan, and then convince the listing agent of your qualifications, and that the loan will close smoothly and on time, is about all you can do.

How are you determining if a property is worth investing in?

You are going to want to identify the various different RE investing strategies and determine what strategy will best fit your skillset/goals. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/850/topics/895660-my-first-investment-property-an-out-of-state-dealBest Wishes!

I created a calculation to determine whether the deal was worth pursuing, based on the list price versus the expected rental income. 

@Red Johnston You have to determine is it a foreclosure or a bank owned property?

This helps you in determining when the lease expires, what their actual lease is and what is exactly included and not included in the lease agreements.

I first jumped on the local forms on BiggerPockets to determine the best areas to live.

., a month to month lease) do a little research to determine the method and amount of notice required in your state to terminate this type of lease. 

What method or research did you use to determine your rental rates? 

@Tevin Edwards You should check the usury laws in your state before determining your interest rate.