I have also seen total asset value used which is also a pretty horrible metric as it ignores leverage.Why unit count is flawed:A luxury rental in an A-class market is likely worth 10+ entry-level units in a D-market.It ignores partnerships and syndication.

95% of all Wholesaler classes / coaches / mentors are not legit.

There are various test prep classes and workbooks.

Things I learned in my first job that have continued to prove valuable today: underwriting, managerial accounting, private equity deal structures, what a side letter is, what investors want out of deals, what a K-1 is, why real estate is a valuable investment class, what asset allocation is, where to find tenants, what cam is, how to handle Capex items in sophisticated underwritings, loan docs and negotiating terms thereof, understanding a lease, what an estoppel is, what a phase one and phase two are, how to read a PCA, basics of land use and zoning...Oh and best of all, I got paid to learn all of this stuff.  

There is a church for sale with 2 bathrooms, office and 2 class rooms.

But I am leaning towards properties that break even and have high appreciation so that i don't have extra income when I am in a high tax bracket here in California.I am looking for suggestions on what is the best strategy.1. get a property locally in A class neighborhood costing around $600,000 to 800,000 and hold long term for appreciation (no cashflow)2. work with a turnkey provider and let them handle the portfolio3. work with a real estate agent, property manager and invest out of state and look for cash-flow and appreciation (more work)

This "B" class apartment complex in downtown Augusta, GA is located in an "A" class neighborhood, just waiting for some value-add TLC!

Properties in A class neighborhoods typically were built in the late 80s, early 90's and early 2000's which is more desirable for the modern buyer. 

I keep finding myself looking at lower class properties, but quickly begin to consider all of the cons.

You cannot just plug a percentage value in here in Cook County.