Is Mira Mesa a desirable and safe area to live/rent?

My name is Justin Springborn, a young buck new to real estate and the Dallas Fort Worth area, looking to purchase my first investment property within the next 6-8 months.

We are excited to get started but want to make sure we set ourselves up well by talking to folks in the field to set up our business model well, find great real estate agents and investors that work in our area, and see who else is out there doing it in this area.

As a matter of reference, I am an attorney here in Utah (South Salt Lake area).

Is anybody investing in these areas?

My wife and I are going  to look at one of those properties this week but don't know exactly how we should calculate the properties value as its unique to the area so there are no comps.

When investing OOS in Cleveland, make sure you work with an investor focused agent so you're able to get a good idea of the different areas and make the right investments.

While this might seem like a downside, it's important to keep the bigger picture in mind.If you’re looking at a duplex in a good area, close to your work, and the numbers still make sense—even with those lower rents—don’t let that deter you.

I plan on demolishing & doing ground up construction, with common areas including garden beds, light workout area & gathering space . 

@Jacob Gelinas agree anyone buying retail is overpaying.