Excluding financials on these properties. Looking at a new home build and just contemplating from a rentability standpoint is a larger two story (4/3.5 bath) with zero lot line and no yard (community amenities) or a s...

We are in bay area as well and have been considering adding an ADU to our backyard for cashflow. 

Yes, it is easier to learn the market in your backyard, however, sometimes the luxury of finding the right deal does not exist there.

Several years ago, right as the bars were closing, there were 13 gun shots fired just beyond our backyard fence.

In reality, the person raising money may never have purchased, operated, or managed a single investment property on their own.If you want to own the real estate, investing in distant markets requires far more upfront diligence and time than investing in your backyard because you have to learn the real estate markets you are going to invest in.

Usually best to start in your backyard. 

Just cause you hunt or target practice in your backyard.

It got me wondering how many investors buy out of state vs in their back yard.

The fridge tips forward.Time slows down like a movie.WHAM.It lands in the backyard with enough force to make a crater and my soul leave my body.

The asset is distinguished by its 100% "townhouse-style" unit mix (all 2-bed/2-bath two-story units) featuring private backyards and in-unit laundry, amenities that strongly support tenant retention and command premium rents relative to standard apartments.