I have a fourplex bordering that area off Broadway and Franklin that has done well over the past 14 years.

Its easier to repaint and I do not let the tenants paint or use wallpaper or borders.

Some of the other strategies taught that border on practicing RE is where the issue can lie.

I'm new to BP and found your old post from 2 yrs ago, I'm living in Aurora and been investing in the Aurora/Naperville border along Eola rd, my initial plan was stick to good school, district 204, all my properties (townhomes) have done well for me since 2014, good tenants, never had any issues with tenants, property appreciations also pretty well. 

We’re a Canadian couple ....Driving over on your days off might lower your anxiety.Maybe stay overnight in a motel, get your hair cut there, eat in the restaurants.Get to know a few cities well, and get to know the neighborhoods there.Talk to a few realtors and shop in the local grocery stores.After a few trips, you will know where is not safe, and where is more safe than the not safe.Also once you cross the border 911 is the call code for help if you need it, but don't expect the Red Coated Mounties in their shiny brown boots. 

Typically to outskirts of the city along the border towns are the better areas and as you get closer to downtown and the University it gets more rundown.  

I have employees from South of the Border and their licenses are often in limbo.

After ten years of paying our mortgage on our existing home, and savings, that was just about right for making the acquisition and restoration of this home work, if we could be acquired for a price that fit prudently into a calculation that accounted for an estimation of its value in good condition, minus when it would cost to bring it into that condition from where it was at, which was bordering on condemnation.  

My lot is a triangle on a cul-de-sac and borders with 4 neighbors fences.What is the rent on your dog friendly house?

It's also important to note, I think, that tons of people stream across the border on a daily basis and are immediately provided with free homes, free food, free medical care, free clothing, etc... but the elderly (In this regard) seem to fall through the cracks for some reason (according to one of the posts above).