The numbers work: Potentially up to $40k profit but I am cautious about the area not having a high sales volume over the past 3-6 months.3.)

(though if she lives alone, etc. you want to be cautious how much information you put out, and screen potential buyers so that only qualified buyers come over - which is another great reason to list with an agent) Ask the condo association if they have a newsletter or website that goes out to owners, maybe they have a classified section.BTW people over 55 are in fact online :)

Is this truly a way to get ahead if you are cautious on your investment and don't just have big piles of cash lying around?

And, that's not gonna happen unless it's run as an AirBnB.Also, not sure if you're planning to finance, but lender will he very cautious with any STR income in situation like this.

Also, be very cautious and study up on flood zone areas in Sacramento.

Is this an opportunity to take advantage of or is this an area to be cautious of?

Be cautious and learn what something can actually be done for before agreeing to anything.

they are not going to go into super rough areas and loan.plus these guys are smart they know the wholesale values of rentals in most markets which tend to be 50% or less of ARV.. so rightfully so they are cautious and definitliy picky about product.

I’ve noticed the improvements as well, and would like to invest there but I’m a bit cautious to be in that area right now. 

Just know that if your realtor is selling you the gentrifying neighborhood story, I'd be cautious at best, fire them at worst.