As a first time home buyer, how can I buy in CA?

[Lee Daneshavske]

About me:

- My first post on BP - (woo!)

- Graduated college 4 years ago - (27 y/o)

- Currently renting in San Francisco - (hate the idea of renting!)

- Interested in buying my first place as an investment property 

Hi BP,

I'm so eager to make my first move in real estate. I'm leaning towards a buy and hold (keep forever, maybe refinance one-day), but I'm open to other suggestions. My hope is to purchase something within ~ 1 hr drive of San Francisco, so I can manage the property on my own. I have some hesitations, because California is soo expensive and there is so much uncertainty in the market. It can be difficult to save, especially in SF, so my affordability will likely lead me outside of San Francisco. 

Any recommendations on how I can get started? What would your first play look like?

Your tips and advice are greatly appreciated! 

- Lee