To the East the climate quickly gets harsh in Anza Borrego.  

Sun is harsh, wind is constant, so plan on much more upkeep than standard homes.For those of us lucky enough to live on the Island it's b/c we love the lifestyle.  

I think SF’s RC laws are a lot more harsh.

You want the foundation to go below the frost line because of the harsh winters (although this winter didn't seem to be so).I'd also focus on eco friendly, and cost effective appliances, mini splits, windows, etc.to help reduce the overall cost of operating.There is a shortage of housing upstate so any development is going to be a solid investment as long as you run the numbers and stick to the budget.Good luck!

If I'm wrong or being too harsh...

There will always be those that cling on to a market that is in our rear-view mirror, believing that their house is the exception, and those will be your overpriced listings, sellers that fire and hire new agents frequently, that are quick to let their first offer go, or respond harshly in a counteroffer.

Perhaps I was too harsh about the condition.

I won't be quite as harsh as the others who responded.You were wrong to withhold rent and the landlord was entitled to evict you for nonpayment.Since you were in a HUD housing assistance program, the local HUD housing authority should have responded to your complaints and done their own property inspection.

If you feel they're being too harsh, think about their intent.

Not to sound harsh, but even considering doing this sort of renovation without a licensed contractor or a permit is foolish.Also, many states have programs where if there were issues with a license contractor, there are funds that can provide some type of remediation.