Do not see much of information out there on the internet, and a little skeptical of the quality of their leads. 

REI are so major, it is a blessing to get quality advice before making moves.

From a quality perspective, I think you will find better tenants in Groton and better parts of Norwhich but your cash flow will be better in New London.

If any one has been in a similar situation where there has been a bit of delay finding a quality tenant please let me know how you proceeded.

For someone that's not as conservative, or a different view on the next recession, they might have a different opinion than me on all of this2) Sponsor quality check: (takes about 45 minutes per deal)I believe that a great sponsor can take an average looking deal and make it great, and that in mediocre sponsor can take a fantastic looking deal and make it bad (especially if there is a severe recession).

Are their listings detailed with good quality photos?

What is your quality of life worth?

Incentives only attract lower quality applicants. 

Raise your standards and applicant quality might follow!?!

:-)  Of course there are plenty of other markets in the mid-west that are also affordable and easy to enter, however, Detroit has other appealing qualities as well.