I am hoping to get a little action from this mailing, but I am really hoping to get some momentum moving into next years tax foreclosure period.

Don't limit yourself on your option period.

If the owner does not let you see all the units during the inspection period, I would walk...fast.I also use and recommend a home inspection.

I spoke with a few neighbors to get a little info on the house and they were more than willing to provide good info.Currently the ex-girlfriend of the ex-owner's house is squatting there (actually just leaving her two dogs there and checking in on them periodically).

I think the key to being profitable in a low rent/high value area is to have a long holding period. 

Put down 1500.00 and pay the owner over a monthly payment with a 4% interest rate over a 48 month period.

If historically, SF rents increased by 7%, it's entirely possible that they are entering a period of near zero growth for several years to come.

If a home is likely to sell in a reasonable time period, a sale seems to be the best solution for all concerned.

Ideally, that is what I want.You can continue to talk to them during that time period, and discuss payment arrangements, but make it clear the clock is ticking down.

At that point, it doesn't matter how long your hold period is.