Major code or environmental or building and safety violations carry over to the new owner (that's you) - stick to the easy stuff. - Those are some initial things to think on.

Food for thought - you'll also want to consider your tax strategy and reported income through the lens of your future plans.

how do i assess a house in terms of safety etc? 

Think about your SO preparing food for a SuperBowl party.

I like niche.com to give me a sense of schools and safety.

Are there any specifications on dumpster sizes, work hours, safety equipment, etc.?

Judge awarded tenant $70,000 and ruled that the tenant shouldn't have been charged rent since the unit was illegal (not up to current safety or fire code) and didn't give the landlord a chance to remediate the unit. 

Get a property inspection: As you mentioned, you will need to hire your own inspection company to inspect the property and uncover any potential issues that may affect its value or safety.4.

And that's every 3-4 years when tenants move out.Hope this gives you some food for thought.

It is a 4-plex in the Adams Point area of Oakland. 3 minute walk to Whole Foods.