I have become very interested in them because of my last landlord who owned 20+ homes around Southern California.
The landlord had a group of plumbers, electricians, craftsman, etc that he would call for repairs. He explained to me how they had built this collection over the years and always purchased in low markets.
I currently have been looking primarily at college town property. College town property I know can be very risking with damage control renters. Checking the craigslist and the OC register for rentals I go and check them out to see up close to find out what fixtures they are using also windows, doors, quality of carpet, tiles to help get idea when you compare the MLS.
I think the duplex idea is a great one. I know a family friend that purchase an 8 unit complex in La Mirada, CA for 300k in the 90s and sold for over 1 mil a couple years ago. Then he made a big mistake and purchase an estate in La Quinta at least I think he made a mistake!
