Also before buying a property - capex, utilities, property management and all other related expenses should be calculated before purchasing an investment property - especially in california.

I would, and have, messaged property owners and/or relatives on FB.

Everyone says "Johns Hopkins area", but the Johns Hopkins area can mean both really nice or total warzone depending on the block.The 1% rule is relative, in Baltimore I would expect closer to 1.5% or 2% depending on the area and corresponding level of risk.

people with too large incomes in relation to a unit may take the unit because they are having a hard time getting a place or my favorite they are looking for a house (include early termination fee!).

So: Net net - Here is where I am with a dilemma between CHOICE 1 (Chandler Blvd/Ahwatukee Hills/Gilbert - PROVEN areas) for an "OK" return for relatively much less risk where I have to cough up 350K for a decent SFHor CHOICE 2 (San Tan/South of Queen Creek/Coolidge etc) for a bit more risk but better reward and incidentally better cash flow - and yes, LOWER price overall for the property around 200-275K and hence more manageable.With the following baseline assumptions:175-350K price rangeNo PoolDesert Landscaping in back and front yardBuilt in last 5 years and reasonably well upgraded to keep CapX low.Close to many (preferably high paying)  employers Around 3-4 Bedrooms, 2-2.5 Baths.

Other than that we've had one divorce, one lost job, and one health issue.

@Natalie Kolodij Well, I bought the property under a single-member LLC so I have a separate bank account for everything relating to the rental.

This should be beneficial only in determining your price-per-door relative to, or as a percentage of, comps, and not when determining your offer price.Instead, as @Patrice Penda stated, your offering price should not be determined by nearby properties, but rather the property actuals.

Definitely start jumping into the community here and feel free to ask any questions related to Real Estate investing!

Mold can be a health hazard.