But in terms of maintenance and capex, I wonder if it's wiser to look to a 10 to 25 year-old home in Westfield and lose the charm to win the race with decay.  

https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real...I also suggest the keyword alerts, they work like charm in getting connected with anyone who mentions the keywords you wanted (City, interests, so on): https://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsSee you around!

All options above also work in Eagle Rock, Glendale, Altadena and other less expensive hoods with "Pasadena like" charm if you can't comfortably swing a SFR in Pasadena. 

Hi @Philip McTigheThe info from @Dana R. is great - I would be sure you add a couple more items that some people I find tend to forget on your rentals: Cable TV and Internet, not always required, but they are a great help to making your units more marketable.Also I found in my research for one market I am in, if the property has not already been zoned for a nightly rental you have to get that approved by the city, and they also require a fire suppression system (sprinklers) be in place.

I've got ideas for the yard and interior but what can I do to add some curb appeal to the structure and keep with the charm and style?

How charming!

With cap rates continuing to be suppressed it is getting harder and harder to find deals.  

Trust me, I did it for a $1M listing and it worked like a charm :)

But those old homes can be very charming and beautiful, with character, that you might not find in today's houses.

You can buy a big bucket at home depot, just use a mop to apply.Works like a charm.