The best way to pick a residential investment property is to buy a property that has about a half acre of land.  This is usually big enough to give some space while not having to much property to upkeep.  Also, pick one that is in a safe location with similar properties.

A speaker once told us to follow these rules:

Never buy a rental where you have to carry a weapon to collect the rent-

Never re-sale the property if  possible

Always buy a property with about a half acre in a nice location in case you have to re-sale.

Buy properties with newer roofs,  windows and HVAC systems.  People really like garages, if possible buy one with a garage.