I have   the same question, what is the recommended neighborhood if I have the following goals (please let me know if these seem unreasonable):- 20% down + financing- 100$+ cash flow per month, low roi is ok- Optimize for appreciation and location- Purchase price unto 200K is ok- 1990 or newer construction- Multiple exit options including selling at retail

I do agree that the paining cost is very high and unreasonable. 

Code §§ 1950.5g 4A requires list of damages/repairs provided if over $125).I find these charges unreasonable due to the following:1) we requested for a pre-move out inspection for a chance to correct any deficiencies, which I believe is a tenant's right.

It's not unreasonable to have cash on cash returns in the double digits on a good deal.

And you want to cultivate an impression of unreasonableness.

Since the seller owes back taxes, it is not unreasonable to expect that the seller take care of back taxes as part of the proceeds from the sale.  

Paying rent on time is not an unreasonable standard.

. $50k is not unreasonable for a repair on a 100 year old house.

Is that unreasonable?

For less experienced operators, you could justify 40 to 50% would not be unreasonable IMO.