Where to start as first house in CA (4 hrs from SF) to rent later

[Ekaterina Dib]

Hi all,

I can live anywhere about 4 hours drive from SF (could be up to 4.5) and want to buy a first home in CA. It can be small (2/2), the idea is that it should be in an areas that is in demand for rentals/safe. I will be putting 3 or 3.5 down and going with FHA or conventional loan (would like to limit the price at about 500K). What would you recommend? I want to live there for a while and then rent it out with the rent at least breaking even the mortgage etc. Any ideas are appreciated!