There are a few townships around Charlotte, like Mint Hill...that will appreciate a little bit more (most are already overpriced)But for the reasons you mentioned, I would stick to driving distance of CharlotteGastonia, Monroe and Concord are three cities within driving distance of Charlotte. 

I definitely see that i'm going to have to be creative with this and as  @Tim Puffer mentioned, I may have to be very targeted and personalized. 

You haven't mentioned, for example: utilities, property tax, and the usually present monthly mortgage payments."

You could also do as Jeff Smith mentioned and invest in syndications.

Sometimes the article will list what colors were used, and sometimes not... if they don't list the colors, just get as close as you can.I am not affiliated with any companies mentioned.

I lost a house in Black Rock. did not enter a bid fast enough. but I have been looking at the places you mentioned and I'm learning about the areas by driving around. thanks again .

Not to mention the sky high prices for the derby weekend.

Stu thanks for the mention.

As people have mentioned it isn't easy to find properties right now, you should get your financing in order so you are ready to pull the trigger quickly when something comes along. 

I thought those revenue rulings you mentioned were superseded by more recent Treasury regulations (TD 9107).