Personally would go for Vallejo because of proximity to the Bay Area and non-government jobs. 

Another reason, almost all, lien holders are willing to accept pennies on the dollar is because in most cases they are not 1st lien position, the bank is. and if the bank/1st lien position ever forecloses on the property due to borrower nonpayment, then the lower lien positions are all wiped out... receiving only remains of the proceeds after the bank takes theirs, and unless there is substantial equity then unfortunately the lien holder receives nothing. the 2 liens that automatically get bumped up to 1st lien position: delinquent taxes, federal or property.

So federal might give you one and then the state says you get another for 2 a year free.You have to check with your area.

IMO opinion this would extend to resolving code violations as well, as these if left unaddressed could get the property condemned and demolished by the governing municipality. 

I have considered that question as well, however for me, the deciding factor is taxes -- I am worried that trying to 1031 exchange will push me into not such a good deal, and otherwise, I would rather not pay the federal + ca taxes on the gain.

Do what you can to reduce your risk as long as it is in compliance with laws that govern your jurisdiction.

😊Funny thing is, if you check the Federal election registration website, you'll see that I actually did all initial filings to run as an Independent...  

But other 'superior' liens will not, for example state liens (taxes or child support' etc) or federal liens like the IRS.  

I'm thinking (but could totally be wrong) that she needs the roommate to make rent and should be looking to enroll in one of the federal debt forgiveness programs.  

Pretty much all of the government services I have found have percentage based fees too high to make this worth doing.