How to invest in bay area?

Hi,

I am a software engineer based in San Jose, CA. I am looking to buy a property here this year. I would like to know how I can buy a property and make it at least break even if not cash flow.The reason I want to buy here is because of the appreciation that I cannot find elsewhere and the leverage I get on properties that are worth close to a million dollars. I have been renting forever and don't want to rent forever. I don't have long term plans of staying in the bay area. Are there any strategies that could be used to make properties cash flowing in the Bay area so that I can rent it out in case I want to move in the next 2 or 3 years after buying?

Thanks,

Nischal