The metro area as a whole however has gone up 7.4%, but that is a mix of neighborhoods that have done very well and not at all, the average comes down to 7.4%.$1000 rent for a 85k home seems very low though.

What neighborhood, home specs, etc.

The street, neighborhood, due diligence all suggest I buy it.

Do you mean how important is it to have it in this neighborhood vs that neighborhood?

I've walked the streets, I've felt the energy/vibe of each neighborhood.

Generally speaking rents go up year to year not down, unless the neighborhood is in decline then that is a different story. 

With a pool you should always have it completely fenced off to prevent a neighborhood kid from drowning.I would not assume that the bank whom owns it or the town will care about the broken fence and replace it.

You said price is fine, but then went on to say the neighborhood has issues.

If you start showing up to the meetings with proxies for most of the neighborhood, your board might pay attention.   

Without sounding too biased there are some great neighborhoods in Akron for single family investing.