Its not far from the water (not in a flood plain luckily) and its a big area for summer attraction which should make renting a breeze due to these amenities.  

I plan to start with a single home to test the waters and see if this market is for me.

And wait for my banks cooling off period and when I need the cash for another property. 

By the numbers, the cashflow may look better, but the turnover tends to be higher and you have a whole new set of CapEx expenses that have to be supported entirely by that one likely lower-rent unit (it needs its own water heater, HVAC, roof, etc.)If the property isn't a great deal without the garage unit, it won't be a great deal with the garage unit.

Very old and tiny 2/1, but no major upkeep needed in short term as roof, water heater and furnace are all newish.  

Hi all, We are looking into buying this very cool victorian house from 1894 in Contra Costa County in CA.

That water heater is costing you $100  year. but you don't see that cost for years down the road. 

I really appreciate the help as we begin to navigate these waters!

Hey @Scott Trujillo - very cool that you're exploring AirBnb for Sacramento!  

I drink a gallon of spring water daily.