A high-low price range would be developed to help you out.When you are first starting out just figure any improvements will be the average.

With self-directed IRA the sky is the limit.Of course you must be aware of the IRS prohibited transactions and be sure to stay away from those:https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-particip...Selecting appropriate investment option depends on many different factors such as your age and investment horizon, your risk tolerance, investment experience, etc.

Although I'm sure we all do this mentally I was considering developing one in print to go along with spreadsheets to make sure there isn't anything overlooked when considering a property. 

Other things you need to factor in: utilities like satellite TV/internet (which, since the house probably doesn't have access to cable, internet can be An Issue), and will the HOAs allow short-term rentals?  

Guess it doesn't hurt, but I thought that was something we only factor in for 5 or more.  

@James LeeHow much cashflow you’re willing to take should have your expected appreciation playing a big factor, no matter what it is

Such a good, comprehensive overview and introduction to help us keep perspective on all the ways to develop our businesses.

The area where the duplex is, is being (albeit slowly) renovated, there quite a bit of development going on and prices are definitely on the move in Daytona Beach.

Final approval will ultimately be up to the investor.There are other/additional factors as well.

If you're talking owner occupied, meaning you're going to live there, it seems like choosing between those two areas is the primary consideration, then once you've picked that market you can dive down to consider specific properties.For your own personal residence, usually other life factors such as proximity to your place of employment and family considerations (spouse/partner, children, parents/extended family) are even more important than real estate investment.