What are the prime locations in the Bay Area to invest in a townhouse for optimal appreciation?

We're contemplating purchasing a townhouse in the Bay Area while both of us work in San Jose. School district preferences won't be a priority for the next 8-9 years. We're aiming for a great community with a reasonable one-hour commute, and our budget falls between $1 million to $1.25 million. Moreover, we're interested in areas where property values are anticipated to appreciate significantly. We're deliberating between a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom for $1 million or opting for a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom for $1.25 million. However, we're unsure whether to wait and save more for a larger down payment or settle for something within our budget that's located farther than an hour away. #mortgage #housing Tc 350k combined, no kids downpayment 150k 401k 120k