Investors and/or R.E. Agents in Expensive Markets Only (i.e. LA, NYC, SF, Chicago, etc.)

[Rosalina Brenda Berk]

Buenos Dias! 

I will be a licensed real estate agent in Los Angeles in a couple of months (taking state board exam in February) and I'm at the point where I need to write my business plan. With so many paths to take in RE investing, I've narrowed it down to two strategies and I'd appreciate any and all advice from those who have been (or are) in a similar position. 

1. Establish myself as a solid RE agent and save my earnings to purchase buy and hold property(ies) in affordable markets in Southern California down the line.

or

2. Join the flipping game that is being played out as we speak in the up-and-coming neighborhoods in Los Angeles. 

My short-term goal for 2015 is to net at least $35,000 from various real estate efforts combined (commissions, any referral fees I can get, possible wholesale earnings, etc.).

Mid-term goal (2016 & 2017) is to net $60,000 and $75,000 respectively, from various real estate efforts as mentioned above. 

Long-term goal (five years from now) is to have $6,000/month in "passive" income from rental property. 

Los Angeles is unlike other market, so I've heard and read here on Bigger Pockets. 

My questions to you are:

In a market like Los Angeles, and Southern California for that matter, what strategy makes the most sense? 

If you have your real estate agent's license, how have you been able to merge your roles as agent and investor? How have you structured your bushiness plan?

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day ; )

-Brenda