I would study the listings from the top performing rentals in your area to see how they are overcoming any challenges with location.

Hello, I am also located in Toronto and have around a decent sized portfolio in Cleveland.

Quote from @Ven Bud: After hearing to lot of bp episodes on negative cash flow, I have a question.I am currently living in my primary residence and planning to purchase an investment property, and obviously it is going to be a negative cashflow (bay area), but I am of the opinion that as long as the rent on the investment property is atleast going to be greater than my current primary residence mortgage it can still considered as positive cash flow investment.The investment property is going to be in a much better location (for office commute, bay area proximity) than my primary residence.

Timing and location critical Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I read Brian Burke’s book and concluded I wanted to go with a syndicator who was vertically integrated in all phases and also geographically concentrated such that they were experts in one  location.

Opportunity in fantastic location How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Put 15-20k into the property for renovations and to renovate the 3rd floor attic space and he told me it just appraised for 155k but you really need experts on the ground who can help you locate these deals and help get the best price.

If your properties are all located in CA I would advise looking in states like IN, OH, FL, TN, OR, GA and a few other states depending on comfort zone.

Need a home, it needed work, price and location where pretty great.

By targeting better locations, leveraging Section 8 for consistent cash flow, and balancing low acquisition costs with high guaranteed rents, you've achieved impressive results like $1,100 in net cash flow on a single property.