As I've been reading here, most military folks have been doing that since the VA loan requires you to live in the place for at least 1 year and we change stations a lot.

I own a retail convenient store/Citgo gas station here in downtown Kalamazoo.

The light rail system is called the T and the dedicated bus line has stations as well.Areas closer to the North Shore are also picking up a bit.

One, what is the average rent for a one bedroom or perhaps a studio near the Amtrak station?

I'm stationed here for another year and a half and then I'm on my way to the west coast.

Train doesn't come right through the area, but it is just a 5-10 minute drive to the station which will either take you to the Airport, RiNo or downtown.For relatively safe I have to say it's all about what you're comfort level is.

Can't imagine having trouble renting out a 4-unit close to a train station in this job market.

not to argue with you.. but Richmond is right over the bay bridge  and is only 20 miles away.. and their is a bart station there. and there are plenty of homes in the 200 to 250k range I look at them very time I swoop in to buy a lot or two.

Consider stopping by the police station to talk to the community officer about the area.

If I were buying in LA I would buy in Signal Hill or right by the two metro stations.