Bakersfield for first time investor

[Ann Go]

Hello! I'm from LA and have been itching to start my journey toward more residual income by purchasing rental properties. I'm new and have a lot to learn. To start, I've been thinking about Bakersfield (Los Angeles is too expensive and much too risky money-wise for a first time buyer, I think). I'm hoping someone from Bakersfield can answer a few questions for me.

I'd love to purchase small multi-family units to start - preferably triplexes or fourplexes. Since I don't live close, I'll also likely be using property management. The goal is cash flow. I plan to hold the property long term - more than 10 years. Which areas in Bakersfield would you suggest? I know west is safer but there seem to be few multifamily properties there. Is downtown Bakersfield a good area for rentals? I'm hoping for a place below $300k to start.

Thank you. Any advice is appreciated.