I have had some investments in commercial property in Indiana in the past (and maintaining one there at this time, in a strip mall).  

Source: http://realestateconsulting.com/powerhouse-job-markets-california-dominating/Job growth next 3 years (2015-2017)Looking forward to Reeb's chart below, Atlanta and Phoenix stick out to me as a places that will see a good deal of job growth while still maintaining reasonable home prices.

And it is not a covered peril (I didn't maintain my pipe, if you knew you should or not, is not a covered peril).  

The ROI and the fact that you dont actually own all of the hassles related to maintaining a real asset seem very interesting... almost too good to be true !!

It will definitely be less costly to repair/maintain since you will be living in the other unit (it always helps when the owner is on site and can fix small issues themselves or negotiate down contractors' prices).

DRE maintains a list of colleges that they recognize.

I've spoke with quite a few realtors and am familiar with the area and don't foresee any issues renting them out to good tenants and maintaining good occupancy.

The tenants pay all utilities, and maintain the yard themselves.

Edgar, usually the HOA properties keep the grounds well maintained and the property looks better in general.  

@Jenny BillingsYou also need to account for cap ex (10-15%) and a higher maintained allowance due to the type of tenant that will most likely be renting.