Are travel nurses who work odd hours going to feel safe in this area, since you say it's somewhat sketchy? 

I would recommend it, but do it safely and NEVER leave any space for tenants to say you did something wrong/illegal.

(Need to commute to midtown w/o a car and for it to be safe enough for my girlfriend to be comfortable walking alone in the evening)I’ve thought about D4D/direct marketing but I don’t know how effective it would be in the NYC area?

If in Texas and if doing them correctly.The reason for this is a note is needed (and deed of trust) to allow a remedy in the event of default and to also solve DTI issues for the seller (by showing a new lender the note and timely payments).I hope I do not get BP crucified - it is just the way all attorneys who know what they are doing in Texas do them.Stay safe out theirAlan

It is harder to find deals there now since the prices have gone up, but it's still a solid B to B- neighborhood that is considered safe and has a lot of demand. 

Looking for safe, growing areas that aren't too overpriced yet.

There is also one big issue with your tax projection - the taxes of $280 are based on the vacant land taxes and will likely go up to ~$2000-$3000 in a year or so when the assessor catches up with you.I realize there is a 1031 involved so a real estate purchase is necessary, but you should compare your ROI to a safe yielding instrument like a 10 year T-note or AAA corporate bond yield. 

I really see Columbus Ohio as an extremely safe bet for the next 10-20 years.

Which is the best, relatively safe Philly neighborhood for finding a potentially cash-flowing small MF (3 to 4 units)?

Is vital oxide safe to use around the house undiluted?