This means the property needs to return $25k per year over the next 10 years in order to be equivalent to the first model.Moving from this simplified model to your real life situation, here are some complicating factors:1.

Property management will be one of the biggest factors to your success. 

I've also heard that even after treatment the fungal can come back and continue to spread.What do members of biggerpockets think?

It’s a no-brainer, especially when you factor in the money you’re throwing away each month in rent, and it’s definitely possible in the LA area.

Don't forget to factor your depreciation on those machines for taxes.

You can assist them in their research by telling them that the 1031 Exchange works in conjunction with Section 453 (Installment Sale Treatment).

I think by the time you take all those factors into account like you are they will make any deal look like it wont cash flow.   

vlad, I would think you could dissect the comps more: square footage, locations, amenities and make some adjustments to get a ball park number .they may have been all over, but may help you make the "reasonable offer" if you can study them some and maybe get what  duplexes are going for on a sq foot basis in the vicinity, a factor which may still work in your favor as you will be newer and probably better conditon with a new/newer build...

Any suggestions on important factors to consider in hiring these individuals?

So if all goes well we will acquire cash flowing properties with little to no money considering it cashflows as all factors are factored.