Any Merced investors/locals who can provide insight on Merced neighborhoods?

[Caroline Lee]

Hey all! I joined BiggerPockets recently and I'm beginning my real estate investing journey. I'm located in the Bay Area, but looking to buy my first rental property in Merced. My goal is to purchase a SFH that requires light rehab in a class B neighborhood, generate cash flow, and force appreciation.

I'm not familiar with Merced at all in terms of neighborhoods, and while I'm doing my own research on the city, I'd love to connect with any Merced investors to learn about your success / challenges in investing in Merced and which neighborhoods meet my criteria. Would love to hear from locals as well!

Thanks everyone.