This was a desirable neighborhood in general but quite tough pulling comps because 2 blocks over is very different than a train in the yard.

There's a duplex, for example, that I was looking at, just 4 blocks east from Tir na nog downtown, listed for just over 100k that's in great shape.  

Mostly in parts.Foundation....outer shell(block), window framing...Roof...And thats it. 

Because the fundamentals might all be the same but what are the actual stumbling blocks in a market different to international markets.At the moment there is a sense of an economic downfall in South Africa, People are cutting down on there spendage, houses are being sold or foreclosure is being set up.

The cement steps leading up to the porch of my SFR need to be replaced. they have sunken into the ground and are starting to crumble. What is the best way to repair or rebuild the steps?

When used correctly it will allow you to perform more thorough due diligence on a property and create a starting block for further negotiations.

How many abandoned houses are there on the block?

BACKGROUND: So I'm considering purchasing property in a very specific geographical area (a few square blocks).  

It's extremely important to understand each block, street or subdivision.  

and police costs  (directing traffic, detouring traffic, blocking off streets)  and etc. and etc. 2.