I remember when I first moved there I didn't have a parking spot and I would usually walk 7 blocks away simply because there was no spot for me to park.I thought it was merely a cash grab for the cities, and an attempt to regulate properties that fall in disrepair, since a lot of the cities have inspections of the rentals too.Or in my case, it says right on the form, that its for municipal tax purposes.One of the really nice neighborhoods in Salt Lake City has a house that they rent to six different people and all the cars there is a sight to behold, I personally wouldn't want that in my neighborhood either.

Be prepared and willing to move to a hotter spot. 

So it's a great spot for those who work in tech.

Your mechanic analogy is spot on as well. 

@Phillip G Alexander  @Jonathan Bombaci's advice is spot on.  203K is the best financing option for what you are trying to accomplish. 

Hi All,I'm considering building a B grade duplex in small town NC and wondering what the sweet spots are in terms of sq ft, BDR, and Bath.

The owner verbally said they net $2800 per month, so I believe this to be the sweet spot for her cashflow. 

I'm in the same spot just getting started, haven't even bought my first property.

@Imran AhmedIt's that big of a NO:) @Brie Schmidt is spot on as usual.

Trulia, crime reports, spot crime all have some decent info on high crime areas.