Renting in warzones, is it even remotely sensible?

[Gary Dezoysa]

I am amazed just how low prices fall in war zones. Cash flow is my main focus right now and I'm thinking if I tenant-proof the property and stick with section 8, where there is a multi-year waiting list just to get on the program and incentive to behave, it might be doable.

In Long Beach for example, there are D+ and D-/F areas. The difference is that D+ is normally quiet, but "things happen" occasionally in the D+ area (not a place to roam around in on foot at night). D-/F is the active gang presence, chrome rimmed cars driving around constantly area. I would at least stick to D or D+ type of area (not in long beach though).

Is renting in warzones ever a sensible plan, or just plain best avoided due to the risks?