To find value on residential 1-4 unit properties you could ask your realtor to run comps or complete a CMA(Comparative Market Analysis) on a subject property once you find it.or you can find the value on your own.We use prop stream to run comps. 

If looking to change the market value of property, well there you go. 

I use some mixed strategies to go on and off market, but I'm just generally curious what others are doing and finding that works for them?

Personally, I invest in properties in C-Class neighborhoods in my market (East Linden and Southern Hilltop), and they’ve been cash-flowing well so far.

I know pools are a must have amenity to compete in many markets and I have to admit that I'm a bit hesitant to enter those markets due to the potential liability risk.

on the one hand, if you're happy with it, and you believe in this market, and this is what you wanted, great. the fact that you're asking the question shows that you're being thoughtful about it.with that said, it sounds like you're into the deal for almost $90K out of pocket, and so if you asked me if i would put $90K of my hard earned cash into a property to get $175 month, the answer is no. 

The issue I see is that market has historical appreciation below average (not bad, but slightly poor).  

I'm in the marketing field and wish I would have done construction.

Study the market.

But, the self-sufficiency test for FHA loans can be really difficult in SF, meaning that the market rent from units you will not occupy must be sufficient to pay for the mortgage payment.