Thank you very much for the input, Jazzman.
My dad was in a Dixieland jazz band, and your handle always reminds me of another jazz band, “Night Blooming Jazzmen.” Great name for a band. Anyway:
[quote=Jazzman]Phoenix and Las Vegas have seen much bigger corrections. [/quote]
Phoenix and Vegas really did get slammed. Any other markets you think are good for owning rentals?
[quote=Jazzman]One of my properties is in Las Vegas, and was bought through a Redfin Partner (Remax) who had a property management company in their office, so the transition was smooth. Bear in mind vacancy rates, which will be higher, but if you find a good property it will rent. [/quote]
Any ideas on what makes a “good” property in Vegas, one that will rent?
[quote=Jazzman]The returns are acceptable. The only place I found comparable returns was Rialto. I couldn’t find anything in Riverside. Remember, it’s not just returns, but finding an established, reputable property manager. Let that lead your search. Geographical distance is not a problem with modern communications. [/quote]
Are you still using the property manager in Vegas that you mention above? What’s your opinion of them? Do you know any good managers in any markets?

[quote=Jazzman]You need to go out there and vet the agents, and see properties. Go armed with questions which will give you peace of mind on trust issues. I can give you some pointers. Most common surprise is costs are usually higher than you wish for. Anticipate 50% of income paid away on costs. I know of no property managers in SB (anyone…sdr, SDR?), but Realtors may recommend someone. Many advertise on craigslist. [/quote]
Other that a trusted opinion from someone I know, how can I tell if a property manager will be looking out for my best interests?
[quote=Jazzman]The first step is to educate yourself thoroughly on the housing market, and being a landlord. Books, blogs, forums and talking to other investors. Biggerpockets is a starting place. Give yourself six months to do this. Good luck![/quote]
Thanks for the tip on biggerpockets. A lot of good stuff there. I’ve been talking to other investors, listening to piggs, checking out some forums and blogs. Any books or other websites you could recommend would be greatly appreciated, as would anything else you can think of.
I am a beginner at this, and I don’t want to start buying properties uneducated. But I would like to accelerate the non-experience portion of my education as much as possible and then go out there and start actually buying. Thanks again for the tips.