What other methods/ways you think I should use to get a better deal?

Also class A being made of high rents, quality tenants, low turn over and newer buildings less than 15 years old. 

I'm an agent and investor here in the Houston Area, and have been amazed at how much quality content there is on this site regarding real estate investing.I just recently went through the RE licensing process here in TX, so let me know if I can help in any way!

A quality CPA can help offset the gain on your taxes.

It may seem selfish, but retirement is a longer term horizon and I can help the kids find a combination of methods to go to school.  

Flooring I would look at the really thick high quality laminate planks (you can find on sale too for cheap) and most people will not be able to tell the difference between that and hardwood. 

Looking at the street views of the areas, they look "OK" but the roads are in bad condition, which is one of my go-to's in determining the quality of a neighborhood. 

The quality of Tennant will be as bad as the quality of house your buying. 

I'm not a big fan of neighborhood classification for our own portfolio but when asked ....Class A: These properties represent the highest quality buildings in their market and area.

Get to know the rents in the areas you are interested in and you'll be better able to assess the quality of the neighborhood.