Relocating to Charlotte

[Cindy Pinkston]

HI BP Members in or familiar with Charlotte.  I'm looking for a little advice.  I am thinking of relocating from CA to Charlotte NC.  I am looking to purchase 2 SF properties, one to live in and one to hold as a rental.  I will have about $200k to invest and rehabbing both properties is ok with me. 

What neighborhoods to you think are good for the investment property?  I'm looking for C+ to B neighborhoods, safe, reasonable appreciation.  Price range $200-$250.

For my personal residence, I'm looking for a nicer neighborhood, maybe a fixer in a more upscale area. price range $300k-ish.  I'm 58 and not looking for a cookie-cutter cul-de-sac with lots of kids (no offense), rather close to restaurants, shops, etc.  

I could also use a recommendation for a good investor friendly realtor and a hard money lender.

Thanks so much!  Love this BP community!