There are some properties in that price range in Montclair in the not as nice areas tucked near Bay Street station (Mission/New St) or maybe near the South End.  

In my area it's steep driveways, tuck under garages, small bedrooms and closets, 1 bath (and small), tight kitchens, steep stairs, 4 level splits, train tracks, etc

The location is great, and it is tucked away nearby a main strip, so easy access to gyms, restaurants, movies etc..  

You can tuck it behind the flag or if they have a second newspaper box you can use that.  

Most expensive projects were tuck-pointing work to repair a face of building and chimney.

Most expensive projects were tuck-pointing work to repair a face of building and chimney.

Tuck point work as been done on a yearly basis and will continue to be done.

It's only a stepping stone to break free.While you are slaving, eat ramen, roommate up or live in trailer, avoid Starbucks and tuck every dollar you can squeeze out into a bank account. need 20% down and money for materials. so for 80K home (trashed), you will want 35K banked to get started, just a rough idea.Get a pro account on this site so you can access the PRO only blogs and avoid all the goofy stuff that can confuse you sometimes.Take NO advice from salesmen such as realtors/brokers.

So, I tucked my tail pretty ashamed and have been re-evaluating my numbers ever since.

Total rent should be $800-900/month.After inspection major issues we found were:-gutters/downs need replaced, drainage run away from home (water in basement)-chimney needs tuck point at minimum, bricks falling off-mold growing in basement (big chunks of white growth along all wood)-cosmetic work about $2k to upper unitSeller wanted $14k, we offered $10k due to the amount of work we need to put in.