Heres the issue though...Los Angeles min wage is going to gradually rise the next few years to $15hr anyway, so everybody is rushing to get projects done before rates move up but it looks like its happening anyway.  

The disadvantages I hear people say, in my opinion don’t hold that much weight.

I consider the long game for every purchase, but weight it for what is a known quantity.Best of luck and happy investing!

If job is being created and hopefully there will be some from the tech sector, then I believe there will be some $ inflow into the area that will continue the gradual RE appreciation.

As someone who has been through the gamut on tenants and property managers, finding good ones is really worth it's weight in gold!

Keep in mind, the inspector stating (it is not necessary) holds zero weight if you have the grading done on his recommendation, and it still leaks.

I would recommend modeling a 5-year hold, using the T12 numbers for expenses and gradual rent increases to market rents, and find out what it would take to get there from the market.

One could not afford our gradual rent increase to market and left once they found a new place.  

In doing so, I am gradually transferring my IRA into real estate which has tax benefits for me, as well as advantages for my heir.  

A good office that can help you motivate you and train you to drum up new business is worth it's weight in gold.