A legally suited detached with garage is around the $375k - 450k point (in decent shape). 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath main floor around 1100 sqft can rent for $2000-$2200 a month (utilities included). 3 bedroom, 1 bath basement can rent for around $1600-$1800.

As long as you follow protocol and get the property lead certified (which is particularly important in Cleveland), you'll be in good shape.

Although many syndicators tend to hide this is some shape form or fashion.

Do you think the high property taxes play a significant role in shaping your investment strategy moving forward?

You would need to cone up with the difference, which would be your “down payment.” 

If not, the way you build trust is to take a step back and gain some experience investing first in some way shape or form.Then you want to assemble a team who have the experience in all the aspects needed to make the proposed project successful.

They are in no way shape or form designed to be helpful to the average real estate investor or business owner. 

I’m not super keen on having long-term tenants in a single-family home in California, but I’m open to advice on that.The house is in decent shape but could use new flooring, a paint job, and potentially heating and/or central AC, as well as blocking/taking out the existing fireplaces (don't love the idea of fireplaces in a rental). 

To get quick and dirty numbers you can use 5% vacancy, 10% Maintenance and 8% CapEx... assuming the building is in OK shape. 

I've noticed that homes in great shape, ready to go and priced right are still receiving multiple bids and moving quickly.