There’s a big difference between an area that attracts stable tenants and one where you’ll be chasing rent every month.Personally, I’ve built a 12-door portfolio here, and it’s been a mix of cash flow and appreciation.

They were fine with my score (about 740), but have issue with the percentage of personal credit I am utilizing, so that discussion also petered out.Apparently, I have a lending profile right now, that is not attractive to mainstream lending programs.Any advice?

Build a system that attracts the right audience.

With that being said, if you're comfortable with a long term hold, San Diego and especially coastal, will always be attractive imo. 

The higher credit is attractive, but what if the couple's income is 3.2x the monthly rent and the single woman makes 6x the rent?

The area has attracted a lot of new young professionals with their work from home marketing that gives $10,000 to qualified families to help them establish themselves in the area.

You can find them through local real estate investment groups or online platforms.Auction or Estate Sale: If the property has unique characteristics, especially being a large, old Victorian, it might attract specific buyers looking for such properties.

A longer timeline will make paying the extra 2% now more attractive.

Highlighting features like “walking distance to top-rated schools” helped me attract renters even during slower months.Negotiate SmartlyWhile sticking to your legal rights is important, a pragmatic approach could save time and hassle.

I would just be cautious, as there are some rough neighborhoods in both Akron and Cleveland that seem attractive due to the cash flow but will be money pits after the vandalism and vacancy.