Having a tough time getting started in Los Angeles

[Gerrell King]

Hi everyone, I'm been pulling my hair out (not literally) trying to figure out where to get started with building my business.  I'm based in Los Angeles and originally from Bakersfield, which I visit often.  

My biggest problem right now is choosing a market and being able to afford marketing costs.  I've been researching what to do and hear so many different things.  Some say get a website and business cards, others say don't waste your time on websites and cards and focus on finding deals.

From what I've heard, direct mail is the best way to find deals but even that approach can be pretty expensive here in LA since it takes months and a massive volume to get the phone ringing.

I've considered marketing in Bakersfield but if I do, I've been told I'll need to be able to drive there asap if I book an appointment, and that isn't always possible being that I work full-time.  

I'm ready to get started but don't want to spend my time doing the wrong things and wasting money.  

I have a budget of $500/mo.  Anyone in LA have advice or input on what's working for them?