I am a big fan of data analysis (that’s my day job).

Just take good notes and then use the data to help target properties and put offers in.

I like data to support my investments, and I found a lot there.  

It appears they need to update to the most recent census data.

And the cost savings from low oil prices has helped other industries with their bottom lines.Back to your question, have a look at the numbers - I just released my April 2015 MLS Stats blog today and the link at the bottom has a bunch of data you may find useful:http://blogs.har.com/3226/46025/April-2015-MLS-Stats-Are-Out

I was definitely planning on relying on actual sold transaction data -- are these values not reliable through Zillow and other sites?

@Kevin Hill  It's not worth the time, but for our good clients who are repeat purchasers & may tend to do this we'll provide them w/ data for an area that shows the history of sold versus purchase price for their area of interest.  

Source of data was Genesis Group and Home Builders Association of Metro Denver via Your Castle Real Estate.

Both these data sets are downloadable (as .xls files) from Zillow research.Again this illustrates another advantage the cash-flow crowd has over the "real wealth"  appreciation proponents. 

If you give me some cross streets where the property is located I can give you a complete picture (free) of all numbers and data included (rents, valuation, vacancy, appreciation, ROI/CCR)