Getting started- researching markets

[Matt Gigli]

Hi! Beginner here just getting started in real estate investing. I've been spending the last few months reading books and learning, and I'm at the point where I'm ready to make my plan to get started. I live in San Diego and with only about $150k to get started, I am looking to invest out of state. My goal is to start buying long term rental properties using the BRRRR strategy.

I’m torn between trying to stay closer to home to make it easier to visit and buying in the Midwest/South which has much lower prices with easier cash flow opportunities. As a newbie without experience buying and rehabbing, I’m having a hard time getting over the fear of distance!

Anyone have any words of wisdom to talk me into a western market vs a Midwest/southern market for getting started??