Being someone who works in investment real estate, I tend to come across quite a few discounted properties that are located near railroad tracks.

I also went on google maps to virtually "drive" the neighborhoods, which all looked like nice locations with well kept homes. 

This standard can vary depending on factors such as location and unit size.

This gesture can reinforce goodwill and potentially secure her tenancy for longer, which is invaluable.Alternatively, if the budget allows, you might consider replacing them yourself.

We're located in Berkeley, CA, and own a parcel that has a 1000sqft house (2bed/1bath) in the front and a 2x800sqft unit (1bed/1bath each) building in the back.

@Samuel Farhi Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.So, when investing in areas they don’t really know, investors should research the different property Class submarkets.

Add more states as investment locations?  

I actually am located in Palm Beach County in South Florida and love the area.

When looking for a SFH there's several factors to contribute to a great rental rate: Location, Condition, Time of Year, Functionality, City Cert requirements needed (if applicable).I absolutely wish that I could 'Turn back the clock' and do house hacking and jump into real estate investing that way...so many great benefits!

There is a big location component in rentals, especially this segment and you can't fix that.