Real Estate Foreclosures

First of all, is it a good idea to buy foreclosure homes. And secondly, is it a good idea to buy a foreclosure homes in southern california? I know the house in So cal are off the chains expansive but foreclosure pricing is good but i heard it’s a bad idea to to buy a foreclosure homes.

I have been looking for houses for me and my family and I’ve found many houses with 3beds and 2bath for about $1,400 a month. This is the right size and the amount is affordable but i found out that it is a foreclosure home. Since they are cheaper is it good to rent one? thanks in advance.