Looking to invest in my first investment property this year.

[JaNae Anderson]

I have two questions that I hope you all can help me with. I'm looking to invest in my first property this year. I have equity in my home and wanted to know should I use the equity as a down payment? I would like to invest out of state (Austin, Dallas or Houston) in order to find the best deal since my area is so expensive. I live the Bay Area (Vallejo, Ca.) Is it a good idea that to invest out of state for my first investment?