Guidance from Real Estate Experts on Purchasing my First Rental Investment

[Shola Sulaimon]

Dear all,

I am new to real estate rental investment and looking to purchase my first rental property as a source of passive income. 

I reside in Santa Rosa, CA and property prices are way too expensive, as such looking in out-of-state areas. 

I've honed down to select areas with 1 Year CES Job Change Percentage >2%...  

1. Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio

2. Florida: Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville

3. North Carolina: Durham & Raleigh

4. Georgia: Atlanta

5. Nevada: Reno & Las Vegas

I need help from folks experienced in the real estate arena in honing down to the top 5 areas & neighborhoods or any other areas you may have insight into.  I  am looking for positive cash flow with this investment,  locations with a propensity to increase in value & friendly landlord laws. Thank you for your insights!!!!