We plan to replace the carpet in both, in fact the 122k unit is offering a 1k credit for the carpet.

From what I hear from a lot of people is hardwood where you don't want tile, and have carpet in the bedrooms 

I would try looking for a house that only needs minor repairs or upgrade like carpet and paint. 

Having a good rehab checklist would also be helpful, so at very least you have all the pertinent information if you need to do the rehab yourself (how many doors, how many sf of carpet, etc).Perhaps find someone at a local REIA meeting that wants to get into REI, and offer to mentor them in return for their time/effort.

Electrical and plumbing are without issue.The carpeting could use replacing, rooms could use paint, kitchen is straight out of the 1970's but functions.

9ft HIGH ceilings,live/work option, hardwood floors, ultra quiet sound reducing windows/walls, energy efficient, wall-to-wall carpet, granite counter tops w/custom maple cabinets, walking distance to BART & Estuary.$795,000 : Age is 8 years Build in 2008 Price per sqft $305.Unit 1: 3 Bed/2 Bath Rent 1950Unit 2: 3 Bed,2 Bath Rent 2300Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or just friendly advice, Thanks.

- No idea about electric wiring - townhouse was built 1968- Windows are new- Interior doors need replacing (8)- Not moving windows or walls or doors- Outside is fine- AC is newer- Water heater is old - replace with tankless- Replace all floors with hardwood and tile, or wood-lookalike tile (currently hardwood, carpet and tile.

Now, this doesn't necessarily mean remodeling.By having new (or professionally cleaned) carpets and flooring, fresh paint, good lighting (natural or electric), and fairly updated home appliances will go a long way.

(Of course the angle of the photograph doesn't do it justice either because it just looks like a red carpet into the garage.)And just FYI,  repetition is another universal design principle.  

H/W heaters last maybe 10 years, carpets with average wear 5-7 years?