House hack for first property or OOS rentals?

[Daniel Uchiumi]

Hello, first time investor here and just getting started. Im moving to Ventura, CA when my rent is up in January 1st. Should I be looking to buy a multifamily to house hack or keep renting while buying rental properties outside the state of CA? 

I qualify for a VA home loan. Got about $40k saved up and pre approved for only $600k through the VA home loan which doesnt get me much in CA...

im leaning towards buying cash flowing, passive income assets and slowy build from there but wanted to hear what strategy other experienced people recommend