However, be cautious about focusing solely on low prices.

A few things that newer investors should note:- it took 13 years to get there, you have to be patient- rents are high at about $1,750, so probably a quality neighborhood- looks like that is after vacancies, probably low turnover?

Flip side, for a third of that you are trained to find properties using creative finance taking over existing low interest loans that cash flow and you are buying in decent neighborhoods with every day lunch box Joes that have kids and go to work and pay rent on time. 

When rent is too low it speeds up the leasing.   

Almost all of our SF rentals are in owner occupants neighborhoods. 

Also, what are some other low cost amenities that I can add to my STR that will yield a higher ROI?

An 80% occupancy rate indicates low demand. 

I figured this could possibly put me in a good position for a cash-out refinance when I’m ready to move on to a second property.If I stick within my budget, Philadelphia seems to offer the most housing availability, but I’m concerned about most houses available being in rougher neighborhoods.

-properties in the low 100s are going to be in more challenging neighborhoods. 

I feel I'm on the low end, but my COC return a year later is roughly 14%.