If the new apartments have more amenities at a lower price than you, then you may need to either lower your rents or improve your property to be competitive.

Less competition and the best advice is just jump in.

BRRRR is the only way i'd still consider this possible, but deals are rare, competition for those is fierce - i hear about 1/3 of all purchases are from investors these days.You (or someone you know) need to know the areas and where to invest, and where to stay away from.

Maybe we can connect in the future being that we are both in Cali- a relative competitive/fun market!

Currently, the market segment I suspect you're looking at is competitive, so while you can ask for this, it may not be the winning offer. 

Obvious benefit is your competition will be slim.

My favorite business book: Thinking in Bets by Annie DukeMy favorite real estate related book: The Book on Estimating Rehab Costs, J ScottMy hobbies & interests: Reading, writing, learning, HIMYM, Parks & Rec, New Girl, cocktail bars, museums, botanical gardensWhere people can find out more about me: I’m not a heavy user of social media, but responsive to email and LinkedIn and messages here.Looking forward to connecting!

Andy Sullivan in Bedford or Paul English from Ace Title in Manchester - let me know if you need their numbers, they both work with investors both small and heavy hitters.

The competition is even fiercer. 

I’d offer competitive price points to property managers/agents in return for continued business.