I'm in local marketing now with a background in lead generation and web development so if you need any website help just let me know!

What tools are available to help determine the market of a particular area is strong in Rental or Buying

Sounds like you have identified a problem in your area that you could make money filling.  

We have the Housing & Community Development Advisory Commission, but the deadline to apply to serve on that commission was March 1st.

. :) As to Brandon's mission:Topography is more of an issue, in rugged terrain it might be developed for some use, but what is the cost of curing the problem.

Conflicts develop when you manage property.

Any recommendations (books to read, websites, etc.) for someone looking to get started in real estate development?  

After developing your "personal touch" and adding experience you'll be able to hone in on your desired approach.

@Blake BroomerWelcome fellow Pennsylvanian.It also depends on what activity that you are doing, flipping, buy and hold, rehabs, wholesale, commercial, development, etc.There are tax implications, as well as liability issues, and anonymity also.The PA Dept of State has an online file that you can check to see if the proposed name is in use.In most cases I'd recommend that the entity name not contain either you first or sur names.In any event, the best advise would be to contact a PA attorney to help decide the type of entity, your planned work and possible other parties involved. 

I suppose this has to do with developing criteria you can trust enough.