I just bought a 2300sq house at auction for 71k.

Happy to discuss this further on what might make the most sense for your end goal.If you are renting right now and starting your path in real estate investing, as said above, I really do like the house hacking strategy for your situation.

Toxic paint et al.Would you want your family living in house remodeled with cheap Chinese s**t?

This comes from a 2017 City document, but it seems to be current.http://www2.oaklandnet.com/oakca1/groups/ceda/documents/report/oak050966.pdfA real pity, with the severe lack of housing in Oakland. 

Currently situated in San Diego and can only afford rent for now because house prices in SoCal are bonkers.

I ask because we only buy houses around the southern US (TX,OK,AR,TN) but we're curious to know if more opportunities to buy foreclosures could potentially exist in other markets. 

If they like to rob houses, they're probably not going to become a model citizen just because they rented your house.

These areas are experiencing significant development and population growth, driven by families and professionals seeking more affordable housing while staying close to the job hubs in Plano, Frisco, and even parts of North Dallas.

Some apartments are open to "corporate" housing.#5  Airbnb -  Do NOT mention "airbnb".   

There's lots of opportunities in developing neighborhoods, but also seems a bit saturated at the moment.Also, definitely budget security (remote control cameras, alarm system, etc.) for your properties, as there are a lot of people who occupy themselves by breaking into houses and stealing anything they can sell.Lastly, there are a ton of contractors looking for a quick buck.