Investing in LA and/or Florida

[Marco Cruzatt]

Over the past 3 years I have learned a lot from listening to the BP podcast and some investors. I have been working really hard and saving my money and I believe now is the time to make my first investment.

I work full time as a Civil Engineer. I have good  credit and money saved. I'm debating on whether to do one of the following options, 

1) House hack: Potentially buy a 2-4 unit so I can live in one and rent out the other ones.

2) House Flip: Find a fixer upper so I can restore and sell.

3) Buy an invesment property out of state

My short/long term goal is to be a real state investor/developer with various rental properties (Mainly for housing), therefore, I'm aware that the first deal must be chosen carefully.
What does the BP community recommend?