First time investor from California

[Account Closed]

Hello BP!

I am currently an active duty Marine looking to invest in Multifamily homes in California. Yesterday I bought and read The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Real Estate Investing, and was hooked! I am now reading my second book on buying and renting.

I plan on using my VA loan to purchase a duplex or triplex in Southern California and keeping a unit for my wife and I and renting out the other unit. However, after reading through the forum I keep seeing posts about investing outside of California. I am open to that decision but confused on where to start? Or should I go with my first option? I'm afraid that if I do invest outside of California and no one rents the property I am stuck paying for my home here and in another state.

Thank you.

[Karen Margrave]

Personally, I always like doing business close to home where you know the markets, economy, area attractions, schools, etc., takes some of the risk out.

Thank YOU for your service to America!