However, the 1% rule mentioned in various books didn't exist in the Bay Area at that time.

Is it just "easier" to do without a security deposit and leave yourself open to that risk rather than the potential for a lawsuit if you don't follow one of the many, many, many rules around the deposit?

Hmm maybe it's time to think up another "Ned's Rule of thumb"If someone suggests a strategy using a quit claim deed, run away as fast as you can.

Yes, you can get 10 conforming, if you go to a bank or a broker not familiar with investors they might tell you 4, but its 10.The underwriting changes when you get to loan 5, and frankly its more of a headache for the broker (and the borrower), so a lot of lenders don't handle 5-10.Some of the rules that change beside the reserves, no cash out on NOO after your to mortgage 5, your mid score has to be a 720.As far as portfolio lenders,,as many as they will write you, and when you finish with that lender go to the next,,the limits are on conforming (say Fannie/Freddie) loans

These properties are primarily bank owned and come inline with the 70% Rule, but they are priced low due to the extensive work needed.

I'm not sure using the 50% rule for such low rents is appropriate since there is a lower limit on what repairs costs and these rents won't go as far.

Depending on the MLS rules in your state, you may be allowed to become an unlicensed assistant for another agent and gain access that way, but barring that, you'd need to get licensed yourself.

Based on 50% rule, you will cashflow roughly $190/mn.

Of course, there will always be exceptions to the rule.

Typically it means making multiple passes at the data.The real killer is that the algorithm or rules quickly become obsolete as new information is available.