Wouldn't it be easier and much more predictable to buy existing rental units with renters already in them?  

As it is, most major Canadian financial institutions - RBC, TD, BMO - are predicting a period of lower housing price increases with stricter lending and rising interest rates to combat the runaway housing prices.From personal experience, I can tell you that as a Canadian investing in the US is not that hard.

We always look at an ensemble of forecasts to predict future outcomes.   

I personally do not agree that RE prices drop as they are predicting.

Of course, I cannot predict what the house market will look like in 12 months, so there might be some advantage in waiting. 

It is an unfortunate situation there is no way to predict what the future of insurance in this region will be.

@Zeb B.Hey,I would look into the university’s sport schedule and the popularity of their are football and basketball programs (especially homecoming).

I thought of asking my ex football player friend to come with me. 

Well its hard to predict the market will do between now and 5 years from now right ? 

I like Stark and Summit counties because it's where I live and know the sweet spots for decent schools yet lower property values.Massillon is a very strong football community that breeds a "born here stay here" mentality.