I also want to run some ad hoc/routine analyses of historical/recent sales data in my area so that I can get a better sense of the market and recent trends, and possibly develop some insights on future performance. 

Specifically. places where the millennials are attracted to are interesting as they are becoming the biggest renter and homebuyer group(Note: Be careful with 'historical' data.

You KNOW that you're getting a great rate now, whether it's 3% or 5%- historically, those are amazing rates. 

I’m facing a similar issue with an old historic building I’m converting into 8 apartments.

Big houses and a historic neighborhood they're trying to revamp.

It's a property that with the most direct comps that are available, is probably an ARV of $250k, however, most of those comps aren't fully renovated, and are more plain/boring homes, while this home is a 100+ year old, historic Victorian that I believe can sell for quite a bit higher potentially, but I can't risk getting into it making that assumption. 

The small town also has a weekend/seasonal draw for out-door recreation and historical small tourist events, so there is some potential for use as an AirBnB. 

@Jessica Jones GreenFor investors there are no grant programs unless you are doing something specific with a jurisdiction like historical work or deed restricting units as affordable.

They can't get a lake-front, historic cabin from Motel 6.

Appreciation in Travis county is right about 5% on average over a 63 year historical view.