How do I avoid

First, I would say pick your city. You can google all kinds of information - job statistics, employers in town, population, colleges, etc.
Once you have targeted a certain town, then google realtors and management companies. Talk to several about that you want to build a team in order to invest in the area and see how responsive they are.
Their knowledge of the area will be invaluable.
I just took these steps building a team in South Carolina. I emailed many of both and only one of each responded! But they are awesome. They, in turn, have referred me to bankers and handymen.
So those are a few ideas to start you with. Hope it helps!

Build a team in that area. First suggestion would be to find a realtor that can point you to houses that are selling fast in particular areas in the city.

You will find that seasoned, investor friendly, real estate agents or brokers are the key to your success.

I was very fortunate to find the real estate agent/investor and her broker/investor who is also a REO Broker for the tri-state area as well as parts of PA.

Talk about hitting a home run the first time out!

You will find that seasoned, investor friendly, real estate agents or brokers are the key to your success.

I was very fortunate to find the real estate agent/investor and her broker/investor who is also a REO Broker for the tri-state area as well as parts of PA.

Talk about hitting a home run the first time out!

Thanx again Guys, for your replies