The guarantee of getting paid and a high hourly rate would be what would entice them to use the hourly rate structure over a commission structure.  

Earthquake fault zones, flood plains, and high fire hazard areas are off-limits.

Of course the high crime statistics cannot be ignored in these cites, however I'm planning to buy only in the nicer/low crime neighborhoods which hopefully eliminates most of the crime risk.I was wondering if any of you could provide feedback on comparing these 3 cities.

Where I have seen "open concept on the way out" is in the very high end properties.  

This was a highly successful transaction.

Most who respond recommend creative financing....seller financing, sub to etc. or using highly levered hard money debt. 

The first agent is absolutely certain the house will sell in the high 400’s.

You still claim the income as miscellaneous income and deduct property taxes and mortgage interest (subject to SALT and other high mortgage limitations) on your Schedule A, but that's it.2. 

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I paid about $1,500 for the installation of a high-quality 4-security-camera system, which can be monitored by both the tenants (and you!)