Market area in Southern California

[Sean Lynch]

Hello All,

I am a newbie still looking to purchase my first buy and hold investment property. I live in Long Beach CA and have been looking in my own back yard where property values are still pretty high.

Does anyone have any market area suggestions within a couple hours from me? I've heard Temecula, Murrietta and Hemet. Any input on these areas or any other suggestions?

Duplexes in my area that I can afford are in the $365k range.

Thanks!

[Marco Santarelli]

Hi Sean Lynch,

Welcome to BP!

As an investor and fellow Californian resident myself, why do you feel the need to invest in something "within a couple of hours" from yourself? I get this question a lot from investors all around the U.S., and after going through all their reasons, most come to the conclusion that your investment capital is better leveraged (more properties) and will work harder for you investing in out-of-state properties.

Besides, look at the economics, tenant laws and political environment you're dealing with here in California! :)