Location is a huge factor in purchasing an investment property and Defence Housing Australia's (DHA's) readership survey revealed that regional spotlights have proved a popular tool in helping respondents make this decision.

With increasing levels of information available on the internet, you may find the abundance of information available overwhelming; but it doesn't have to be. Using a range of tools, taking in as much as you can and weighing up all of the aspects that may contribute to an area's investment potential, can help you find the right investment location.

Our regional spotlights are currently being updated with new information and will appear again soon. However, we recommend you always conduct your own independent research.

Compiling a regional spotlight takes considerable research, however with the right tool kit it is possible to do it yourself! Read on to find out about some useful tools for researching investment locations.

Tool 1: Government and council websites

Local government and council websites are ideal as a starting point, particularly if you're unfamiliar with the area.

The council should provide basic information about the area, including population, key industries and local amenities.

Tool 2: Infrastructure and planning

Infrastructure and planning is considered a key indicator for long-term growth. So, in perusing council and government websites, always research the infrastructure and planning page.

Look for long-term city plans, which will give you an idea of future plans, as well as finding out what's happening now. Things to look out for are major upgrades to transport routes and amenities such as hospitals, educational institutions and airports, as well as expansions in the area.

Tool 3: Media

Keeping abreast of an area's local news can give a broad view of the area and what's happening in the property market, such as new development plans and announcements. The local media will also give you an idea of local opinions of amenities, planning and policy, as well as information on different suburbs in the region.

National media, including property and investment specific publications, will also help you to find out about upcoming hotspots and areas tipped for high growth.

Tool 4: Market analysis

It sounds obvious, but make sure you find out as much as you can about the local market; including property prices, rental growth and yields, and long-term capital growth.

Free advice can be sought from a local real estate agent, who you can ask about recent sales in the area, as well as typical rents and vacancy rates.

You can also pay for market reports from analysts such as Residex, RP Data and Australian Property Monitors. Reports usually include figures on the above, as well as long-term performance. This information can often be found in property magazines and newspapers, as well as online.

Using these tools to conduct thorough research will assist you in gauging an area's potential as an investment location. Don't forget, you can apply some of these tools to a whole city or a suburb, so you'll be able to narrow down your decision.

Happy researching!