Encanto would be one for me. Se Habla Espanol. Of the Heights, Normal Heights worked out pretty well in the last couple of decades. I would eliminate it now based on it’s success potential being largely behind it… except for condos and lots where zoning is not maximized, of which there are still a few. Condos in Normal heights, sure. I would get a few blocks off the main streets to avoid potential eminent domain forced sales. Check planning.

In general,No Way I would buy a rental without speculation on appreciation. Sure the numbers have to crunch w/o it, but I would still at least try to make a best guess on appreciation potential.

I like all the neighborhoods FSD mentions too. I think they lean towards a more comfortable landlord experience, but not necessarily best investment return…but good enough if you want to avoid rougher areas.

This just reflects more on what I know and what I think I know how to work, than what is best.

Sometimes you want to buy something that you might live in in the future. Think that out well if it is a possibility. My wife and I consider buying our “empty nester” place as a rental sometime in the next few years.