In my experience, a high welfare rate in an area isn’t automatically a detriment it depends on how you structure your investment and manage your properties.Key considerations:Tenant screening & management: Even in areas with higher assistance rates, thorough screening and clear lease agreements can mitigate risks.Market dynamics: Areas with higher welfare numbers sometimes have more stable rental demand because tenants rely on assistance programs, which can reduce vacancy risk.Local laws & support: Understanding local landlord-tenant regulations, eviction rules, and available support programs is critical to protect your investment.Property type & location: Investing in well-maintained properties in desirable neighborhoods, even in high-welfare areas, can still yield strong returns.Ultimately, it’s about balancing risk and opportunity.

Quote from @Don Zuehlke: I have a property in South Carolina with a very loyal tenant who has verbally expressed a desire to stay for several years.

But that should come with the understanding that this is a desirable place to live and it is growing.

That scarcity pushes land prices in desirable areas above $1 million per acre and drives new home prices starting at $550,000.

Butttt, I've always had a desire for commercial properties (as an owner).

There's room for flexibility depending on the desired tax strategy.We use QuickBooks Online exclusively for all of our REI Clients.

The few "comps" on zillow are in such neighborhoods, which have high rental turnover rate and aren't near as desirable as my area.

But in East Bay and Marin, location is king—if you buy near BART, ferries, or in a highly desirable school district, your appreciation will likely be stronger than average.Exit strategy – A few things help here:Rental potential: Check HOA rules on renting.

In reality basements are often dark, musty, moldy, damp and water prone, which makes them less desirable to the buying public. imho, be cautious on how much you spend, because your return on investment of below grade space may be less than you expect.

Past your standard ARV, Rehab, Fixed Costs, Desired Profit and Max Purchase price numbers, what questions do you like to answer?