VA Loan? LONG DISTANCE INVESTING?

[Eric Alvarez]

I currently have 8 months left serving overseas and looking to invest in a multifamily back in the states (SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA) to rent out while i live in. I want to utilize my VA loan. However, I believe I am required to live in the property for the first year if I utilize the VA loan. Any suggestions on how i could get started with this process while i am still overseas? Would it be possible to still utilize the VA loan for a property in the states while im overseas? Is there any way my parents could possibly back home could assist me with this? I'd love to hear everyone's tips and advice.