If you're doing to invest in C-class neighborhoods, I'd rather invest in local C-class neighborhoods where I have a much better understanding of gentrification patterns (ie, the path of progress).And if South LA is still out of reach, I recommend considering an acquisition in Columbus, OH.

The tile/grout I have is almost identical to the picture with the light countertop that I posted at the start of this thread.   

Housing formed a massive head and shoulders pattern and within the h&s pattern was another smaller one which formed the head of the much larger h&s pattern.

If it is just the look you are after then install vinyl flooring that has that pattern, not hard to get and it’s cheap and easy.

This could be changes to the market, changes in traffic patterns, or the construction of public nuisance type projects.

If you want to go wild, stack it vertically and/or in a grid pattern versus brick 50% or 33% offset.  

@Brendon Kerrigan I have a 1980's rental with original formica in a woodblock pattern.

Probably a Solo 401(k) but a SEP IRA may make more sense in select fact patterns. 

.- You don’t need to have any background in construction, electric, plumbing, tiling, etc to get into real estate, though knowing some basic knowledge is extremely helpful.

All my flooring, tile, kitchen cabinets, I also did most of the work myself to keep costs down.