NEW to REI. Please share any thoughts, advice, experiences, etc. Knowledge is Power.

[Mark Taleon]

I am totally new to REI. Im here in Southern California, I wanna know how the market is here in terms of BRRR's and mid-long term rentals. My goals with REI is to generate as much cashflow and appreciation as possible, so I can get out of the 9-5 routine, build wealth for my future, and have as much time for myself as possible.
Is Southern California a tough market for beginners? What should I expect and watch out for with these strategies in Southern California?