That's why we discuss classes of property, so you can compare apples to apples in different cities.

However, I would counter that real estate is a far superior investment on a long term horizon due to its tax efficiency, leverage, and inefficient market (everyone knows what a stock of Apple is worth.

Make sure you get a few quotes from different contractors and use a template with enough detail that way your comparing apples to apples with eveyone.

There is a lot of investigative work you can do to at the building department to weed out many of the bad apples.

Reverend @Lucas Carl is always on the cutting edge of technology with his iPhone. 

Cap Rate is a great number and very helpful - especially for quickly comparing multiple properties on an even plane (apples for apples, oranges for oranges....)

But if I could buy $1,500 of Apple stock for $1,000 every month (this transaction is negative cash flow for me, by the way), then I'd consider that.

Warren Buffetts Berkshire Apple shares don't perform any differently than my Apple shares.

Comps are a bit tough because its apples and oranges- there are a few small blocks of houses surrounding this one (none currently rentals) and most of the rental units nearby are in high end buildings with amenities.Also, my plan is to stage it and get professional photos this time around which I didn't previously.Thank you for any insight!

At a commencement speech, Apple founder Steve Jobs once said, "it is ok to fail forward" as he recounted his many failures that lead to his success.