If you are going to focus on that find an area that is closer to public transport going to other feeder cities and check out the crime stats on any neighborhoods.

Also, Microsoft is in the middle of a huge remodel which includes a big change to public transportation. 

Depending on your DTI, you may need to work at reducing expenses (rent/mortgage, car loan or transportation, etc).

Look at more rural areas around railroads and transportation to the urban areas if you want a deal Sometimes the TV producers just look for an area they can pull this off in a TV production time frame.

https://lalascoop.com/2018/02/21/hawthornes-resurrection/    Some of the things i noted about Hawthorne is that it  enjoys a great geographical position due to its proximity to beaches, public transportation, DTLA, and airport access.

But I'm sure I can figure out another mode of transportation. lol      given the opportunity to pick your brain , that would definitely be an action item I can cross off my list !

Generally I look for median homes price & income levels close to good transportation & decent schools. 

To buy out of my area, I would need to include transportation, lodging to see the house prior to purchase. 

Location is key and with colleges and universities and public transportation growing, you can find properties like this.

I consider population size, unemployment rate, transportation, good income or credit, property tax, income tax, tax incentives.