Chasing first deal in an area out of my budget

[William Graves]

I have been looking at properties for awhile and I think I’ve narrowed down the niche I’d like to stay within. I’ve read countless threads on beginner investing tips and the best way to get started and I have a general idea of my way in and my way out of my first deal. The question I have is, how do I go about investing in a city that is a tad out of my budget for a first deal? The usual response I get is, “invest in a city that is more within your budget.” Therein is where my confusion lies, because the countless threads I’ve read also like to italicize on investing in an area where you are familiar within and know about. Where can I find the happy medium between the two and if I stay within the area that I’m familiar with but that is also out of my price range? Smaller down payment + lining up possible renters before purchase? Sorry if this is a bit of a beginner question but I’m curious what people have to say about this.