As a new investor, is Bakersfield a good place to investment for a long term rental?

[Daniel Ben-Hur]

Hello community!

My name is Daniel and I was recently told by my father to read rich dad poor dad, as well as Ken McElroy's ABC's of Real Estate Investing... I soon had a change of heart in what I desired to do for the rest of my life. 

Long story short I graduated college with my degree in engineering and have been working as an Civil Engineer for a little over a year. Because my desires have changed, the way I see it, I would much rather spend my time seeking investments that will guide me to financial freedom, than waste my time working and hoping the potentials of a 401k will save me in my 60's. I am 23 years old and I want to start investing in real estate now! The only knowledge I have was obtained so far comes from books/podcasts, but no hands-on experience yet. I do plan on attending a real estate meet up this coming January. 

The question I have is in regards to location for my first rental property. I live in Bakersfield, and I am wondering if it is better to keep looking for deals in the Bakersfield/surrounding areas, or to look at properties in other states such as Texas (because I may move there in some years) because at first glance, in other states such as Texas, I am able to find cash flowing properties at a much higher rate. Any tips on finding cash flowing properties in Bakersfield, or any realtors/brokers that specialize in investment properties in the surrounding Bakersfield area?

[Tim Ryan]

Hi Daniel.  Welcome to BP!  Congrats on figuring this out at your age.  I would suggest out of state. I have family in Bakersfield and I don't see the right investments there right now.  I can tell you more about my RE journey, which by the way, started with reading Rich Dad Poor Dad - complete life game changer! It's real!!