Condos are less expensive to buy, but you have condo fees and special assessments and condo rules.

I did a "blind" assessment where I paid/reimbursed a close family friend to go in as a guest because there were a lot of details I wasn't privy to- and wanted to understand (the whole experience and process from the guest perspective from the initial inquiry, emails, etc.).They shared the email communications (some of which was glitchy or not quite as good as what I'd expect, or told me of delays in receiving responses).

@Michael Lyons I disagree with your assessment, there is absolutely a catchment area that matters.

Given it's location not far from the ports of Richmond and Oakland, and that the Chevron oil refinery is nearby as well, some of that is likely be driving the highest and best use assessment. chris in the deep south they turn the anchor store into a big church..  

So, having a trusted and experienced Realtor to provide you with an evaluation would be a good start to helping you really assess your options.First, I would ask you what your ultimate goal is...? 

It's rarely talked about, it seems.I looked at some listing in the Research Triangle in North Carolina but the cash flow doesn't seem great, especially there could be a major assessed value/property tax increase as there was a lag of 4 years in NC.

Assess Your Goals and Current Structure: Beyond replacing your handyman team, it’s important to evaluate your portfolio’s current management framework and clarify your long-term objectives.How are responsibilities currently divided among you and any co-owners or family members?

Based on rough assessment, the following is needed just to get it listed:NeedsLowMidHighRoof$7,747.00$12,580.00$26,037.00Siding$20,000.00$25,000.00$30,000.00Windows$9,000.00$12,000.00$18,000.00New Deck$8,000.00$10,000.00$12,000.00Roof Leak Repair$2,000.00$3,500.00$5,000.00Mold Mitigation$1,000.00$2,500.00$3,500.00AC Units$13,000.00$15,000.00$18,000.00Carpet Replacement$2,500.00$3,500.00$5,000.00Kitchen Remodel$5,000.00$10,000.00$20,000.00Total$68,247.00$94,080.00$137,537.00Due to lack of capital to fund these repairs, I believe the best option is to find an investor looking to flip. 

Also what does the city say is the assessed value of the property on your taxes (it will be different than the appraised value, but should give you an idea).

When it comes to assessing maintenance costs, one of the best approaches is to request itemized breakdowns for larger repairs.