For me the answer is at least 5-10% more than the long-term average return of the S&P 500. 

The public schools in Dickinson are above average.

You're probably already looking for homes that aren't turnkey, need a little more work than the average/don't have curb appeal, etc. to try to avoid competing with such buyers. 

@Mindy Jensen Interesting how appreciation isn't correlated with cash-on-cash on the average.

The average monthly cost will be higher.

Do not work on the average pricing.   

@Kanika Sharma On average, A half a duplex priced at $55,000 with 3beds 1 bath 1,200 sqft would rent for $850-$950 depending on condition.

Things to consider:-I need to be in a city, walking distance to a business district of some kind-I'd like to follow a path of progress within a city, and don't mind being close to (but not within) sketchier areas-a market where the average 3 bed 2 bath sells for under *ideally* 250k, but up to 350k (I'll be looking for a property that needs work, but this sort of market)-must be SF no association-I'm 31, single/no kids.

They are arguing that the average person would not move out of a more expensive/larger residence and into a “smaller” multi-family unit or single family house.to resolve this and at the recommendation of a few on the post, I’ve began doing a mass survey of all the lenders in my area.

Is there a calculator that provides that or you just analysis the average of houses listed around you.