With the new stadium and the development along the river (finally) there would seem to be good opportunity around there.

I am looking to learn how I can utilize this community of like minded people to begin developing a network of connections. 

Thank you for the shout out Scott--hope all is well in the self-storage and development world!!

I meant get in your car and drive.

I can tell you from experience underwriting deals for a number of institutional and semi-pro investors that they have achieved IRRs greater than 15% and yields greater than 8% in markets like San Francisco, LA, NY, and DC that advertise 4% cap rates.Markets with low cap rates typically share the following characteristics:1) Strong rent growth, driven by2) Strong population growth, driven by3) Strong job growth4) Low vacancy5) High per bed rents (lower operating costs as a percentage of total rent)6) Good property management options7) Higher quality tenants (young professionals like myself will rent in SF until their late 30s to early 40s)To achieve returns in these markets, investors buy buildings with significant value-add or development opportunities on very low to no leverage (debt), and refinancing the deal after stabilization to cash out.

Pros and cons WV:Needs upgrades in kitchen and bathroomCloser commute More trainsBigger apartmentBetter light More parks LES:High end renovations alreadyMaybe appreciate faster since alot of development is happeningBoard seems to be more relaxed Quieter street 

I'm almost a year down the rehabbing path, and I've developed my own analysis/tracking system (I'm an excel junkie too!). 

I'm looking for ideas from more seasoned investors/builders/developers to figure out the best use for this property. 

His drive to stay active, his mind sharp and keep his license just-in-case a neighbor down the hall at his retirement home ever wants to invest in a new housing development!

I think one of the most important steps is developing, maintaining, and focusing your goals, so that's good you've got a nice list!