Use FHA or buy an Investment Property

[Leo Bleier]

I'm trying to figure out how to start my real estate portfolio. I know that I want to create passive income through real estate, building a good size portfolio over time. I have a full time job that I enjoy and am planning on using it to purchase my real estate. I live in Los Angeles Ca which means that my investment into rental property will take place out of state. 

I'm curious to hear people's opinion on whether it's better to take advantage of an FHA to purchase a multi-family in Los Angeles (as my primary residence) or take advantage of lower interest rates and start to buy investment properties in different markets.

The reason I'm debating this is price point. Purchasing here in LA as I'm sure a lot of people know is going to be around +/- 40% more expensive than most markets.

Looking for people's opinions!

Thanks BP community.