Where to start as a Southern Californian?

[Bessy Reyes]

Hi BP investors! 

I’m completely new to the real estate world. I’m fully aware that I will have to spend the next year (at least) educating myself. 
However, I am a wife and mother with a full time job. So I would like ideas on where to focus my attention. 
I was really interested in a short term rental and still am to a degree but due to saturation and increased regulations I am weary of going there. 
I’m also in a very expensive area (Orange County). This makes returns on long term rentals very minimal and short term rental arbitrage nearly impossible (very risky). 
I’m also looking to start with a $30k investment which doesn’t make many mortgages or loans for homes in this area possible. 
So my question is are many of you investigating in California? 
If so, what area? 
If no, what states have you seen developing into profitable markets? 
And what types of investments do you recommend for a beginner? 

Thanks for all the help! 

Karina