As to the larger areas when we are traveling and stop for lunch etc, it is always a coincidence that we just happen to stop near a real estate agents shop.
There are always people who you meet traveling who are happy to talk about the real estate in their area.
If buying for investment I would never buy outside my area, if buying to live in another area go and rent for 12 months so that you know the values and bad spots.
Having said all that houses are still houses and if you can get the land value, the house component is basically the same anywhere with adjustments for the quality and benefits of the area.
