How do you know that the investment property will potentially remain or increase in value? Historical data and history is the key! This is something of my own secret and mostly opinion, but knowing the history of the property is the best way to know if the property will remain in good shape, and rise in value as long as there is no major crash. For example, if you call up a Pest Control Company Muncie and inquire about houses the existed and still exist in the area who experience damage due to termites and other pests, you know that most houses there will experience the same thing in the future.
These historical data will allow you to make an unofficial profile of which properties might potentially remain structurally strong and valuable. The only thing that could change this is by the development of the surrounding lands, with the addition of schools and shopping districts, making convenience and raising the value of just the land.