Rental Properties in struggling Neighborhoods

[Josh Levinsky]

Hey everyone,

So I'm relatively new to this expansive universe of flipping, and renting and foreclosures, and sheriff sales but after about 3 years of research and deliberation, I have decided I am finally going through and make an offer on a property in Philadelphia. 

This property would be for the sole purpose of renting (I plan on living at the house for a period of time at first). Aside from great deals I've found in growing neighborhoods, there are obviously cheaper properties in less trendy neighborhoods. 

Now, I've found over 50 properties -foreclosures and for sale by owners, agents, etc.- in Philadelphia that are huge, beautiful, in relatively good condition and very affordable. They mostly tend to be on struggling blocks.

I know Philly well and don't feel uncomfortable in most neighborhoods; however, I am well aware that many people who are either new to the city or not, do. 

So with everything that must be taken into consideration, I'm wondering, if I spend less for a home in better condition on a more distressed block (where home values are either stagnant or slowly increasing) and rent it out for relatively cheaper prices than more developed neighborhoods, would it be harder to rent? Is there less renters in that market? 

Ex: $80,000 - 6 bed, 4 bath at $1,700/month VS $250,000 - 3 bed, 1 bath at $2,100/month (not the actual numbers)

Without considering appreciation value, for my first go at this, for a rental property, does it make sense to go with the less expensive, more expedient property or a property twice or three times more expensive in a more developed neighborhood?

Like I said, I've been researching this for a while and I'm ready to make a move, and my move does not hinge on this exclusively of course, but I am very curious about this aspect of the rental property dynamic.  Any guidance would be appreciated so much!

Thanks everyone!