Years ago as a commercial RE broker, I once had a client try to close on a commercial property using cash.

People still sleep on the area and it is very close to Nor CA but has a lot of different benefits with similar appreciation. 

@Blake Kirby I just finished the first half of a successful 1031 exchange for BP clients from California...the second fourplex closes early next week.

My question is I haven't raised my two bedroom rents at all because they are close to market value in my area. 

I know if I do not rent to students, we will not get even close to the type of rent we are looking for, but paying the mortgage with no rent is hard on my family and I. 

@Alan Asriants I’ve “house hacked” for close to 30 years.

In my experience those that go alone often times don't end up closing any deals because it's information overload and they're drinking out of a fire hydrant and don't have any guidance to tell them what to focus on.

Look at more deals before we close on a deal.

If you cannot sell the house for close to $150k and have a non-recourse loan, you should analyze if it makes sense to walk away from the property.  

The seller was motivated to close fast, allowing us to secure the deal and set the stage for a profitable resale.