It depends on how much capital you have but I recommend either house hacking (3.5% - 5% down) a 2-4 unit property or you'll need 20-25% down for a non-owner occupant purchase which comes with higher rates.I would say house hacking is not an option for me, because I have a family with 2 kids (need good schools). 

These areas are known for better school districts, less turnover, safer areas, all resulting in better tenants taking care of your investment.

The high school sits right on this road and so do all the big box stores and restaurants.

Areas with good school districts, public transportation, and amenities tend to attract reliable tenants. 

I own two units and one is leased by the unit for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.  

Are you buying to house hack or rent out both sides.There are so many personal questions to answer, before you begin analyzing deals.Factors such as jobs, population, tenant laws, median income, affodability, crime, schools are all metrics to considerGood Luck!

But now the taxes are also higher as without good schools, you don't get the super appreciation vs having a suburban house. 

As long as the locational characteristics, including zoning, appeal, school districts, etc, are similar.So, yes, you're argument may be reasonable.

Class B would be older (maybe 10+ yrs old) with the same amenities, or you could argue that new construction, but with cheap finishes and "bare bones" amenities, would also be B.For area: it commonly comes down to crime, schools, and convenience/entertainment access.  

It’s hard for me to move because I have a kid in a good school district so that might now longer be an option for me