@Thomas RichardsonAs others have stated, employing a repositioning strategy can yield very desirable results.

The trend for employment today is to create more jobs with less pay.

Where a property is in relation to major amenities such as shopping, dining, recreation and entertainment, and the ease of travel to these locations can certainly affect your property.Another major thing I look at as well is what the employment outlook is like in the area. 

It's small enough to be able to travel from one side to the other in about 30 minutes, but still big enough to enjoy a level of anonymity that anyone who's ever lived in a small town would appreciate.There is a very diverse employment base here, including WPAFB, medical, biotech, defense manufacturing, and Amazon is opening a facility here soon - just to name a few.

For starters, check crime reports at www.crimereports.com or www.neighborhoodscout.comand schools at www.greatschools.comand jobs and employment at www.city-data.comCheck with realtor that knows the market and see what their opinion is and what the vacancy rates are.

I check on past landlord history and have applicants provide verification of income -- bank statements showing direct deposits, statement of pension benefits, or signed employer verification form if still working, and contact landlords and employers before I have applicant pay tenant screening service directly for credit/background check. 

Employment is expanding, population growth is solid, and wages are rising.

Just because something is working for you does not mean it will work for them.Realtors are a fickle bunch and will leave you if something goes wrong or they feel pushed into an uncomfortable area.The last bit of advice , agents are independent contractors and requiring them to be investors may pierce the independent contractor viel and open you up to being an employer at the least and a investment advisor at worst and not a team leader.

As previously stated, the best strategy is to employ professional Property Management to help illuminate the particular property submarket an help flush out your business plan.

25% into a ladder cd set up for the next couple years. 50% invest into brokerage account. 25% i would look for a House in the southeast, small college town with a couple big industry employers and probably do a small 2/4 plex there.