Parking, crime, safety, snow, alternate side parking to name a few, a royal PITA. 

Kind of a safety net.

HEALTH & SAFETY CODE §533.004: Perfected MHMR lien has no limitation.Mental Health and Mental Retardation Lien secures recoupment of the cost of providing support, maintenance, and treatment to patients in a Texas Department of Mental Health & Mental Retardation facility.When statutory notice is filed in the County Clerk’s Office where the obligor’s real estate is located, a lien attaches to the non-exempt property of the patient or person legally responsible for the patient’s support.Mechanic’s Liens: Voluntary TEX.

The two extra months would just be a safety time period to make sure that I get the cash of re-fi before the short term note expires.

I would prioritize identifying the right management team in those markets which will be critical to managing the property and to give you valuable insights into the market.2. 

The truth is, it wasn't until I was willing to fully commit to becoming a full time investor and eliminated any other safety nets that I could trust in the process and pay my bills plus flourish. 

Other factors can come into play also that still makes it worth doing the renovation sooner rather than later...... difficult tenant that you just want gone anyway.... safety of the unit etc.

I have a budget around 600k, and with this number, I found that Oakland and Sacramento are two possible candidates where I can acquire a property that is in decent condition.So my question is:What do folks think of both areas in terms of appreciation, cash flow, and safety?

Like Joe said, it's not a huge cost and in my opinion, is worth it for peace of mind and if you have tenants living in your property, for their safety as well. 

From what I have seen, section 8 inspectors focus more on hazard/safety items than cosmetic issues in the property