If your rent is significantly under market it’s hard to raise rents dramatically without some improvements.  

Too bad it took such a dramatic why to get me there!

First off, Gilbert is approximately ~$150,000 cheaper in median home value compared to its Scottsdale counterpart.Downtown Gilbert has changed dramatically in the last couple years.

This is reflected in Durham's strong employment market that continues to boost the central business district, and guarantees the city's success in the commercial real estate market for the decade ahead.

Going from residential to industrial is pretty dramatic unless the residential use is non-conforming and the city is looking to eliminate that use.Good Luck.

By rehabbing it we have created a nice home in a very desirable location, boosting its value.

There is no "Area" or "Neighborhood" that I can recommend because even within a given area changes can be dramatic.

Investing from a solid financial foundation will increase your chances of success dramatically.

I'm wondering if anyone has sacrificed by moving out of a high cost of living area to a more affordable market to help boost their investing? 

@Agyei Axum i have been renting by the room for the last 7 years. that is actually all that i do. i would strongly suggest doing that in your case to boost cash flow in your expensive market. i would find comparables in order to price effectively.