But, as others said the other local IE markets are about double the High Desert values so that could help maintain the high values.  

If a home owner doesn't properly maintain their home, you would think an earthquake hit their house from some of the stuff I have seen. 

Lessons learned: it's about buying up investment properties in well maintained buildings governed by HOAs who are willing to invest prudently in their property.

The state politicians (Senator Wienkowski, etc) in CA behave as though they believe everyone who wants to live in those cities should be able to even at the cost of what makes some of the areas special.Changing rules statewide to increase zoning will lead to the highly desired low density areas to having increased density resulting in no desirable areas maintaining a low density situation.Many people love city life and are fine living in high density areas (like downtown San Diego).  

The cost to maintain the house (property tax, insurance, repair) is getting higher and higher.

Also, if I'm on the board of an HOA, shouldn't ALL the hours spent in meetings and helping to maintain all 34 properties in the complex be considered "Material" hours? 

Effective management is key to maintaining and increasing the value of your investment.Step 7: Building a PortfolioAs you gain experience, consider diversifying your investment portfolio across different types of properties and markets to spread risk and increase potential returns.Mitigating Risks in Real Estate InvestmentWhile real estate offers substantial rewards, it's not without its risks.

Copy of most recent (1 month) paystubs - if they maintain the same job at least you would know where the collection agency could start.3.

Right, the list of things to maintain and/or replace is never ending; rugs, AC filters, light bulbs, water filter in fridge, detector batteries, pest control, coffee maker, stove eyes and pans, silverware, bowls, glasses, sofa cushions, pillows, blinds, brooms, mops, vacuum, brushes, shower curtains, bath mats, beach towels. 

If that means the rent goes into an escrow account that's released to the landlord when S/he meets conditions, fine - or if it gets paid to the court as part of the LL's restitution for not maintaining conditions - whatever.