”Beginner” - What areas in SoCal should I look at?

[Peter Pettersson]

Hi, I am new at BiggerPockets & realistate investing in US.

I have been researching several SoCal cities for our second and third realistate investment property (first investment property in US - long story). However struggle to make something look attractive from a numbers perspective (decent positive cash flow, not too focused on value increase or decrease). What cities or areas should I be looking at? Preferably not more than 3 hours drive from OC (Laguna Niguel).

Can put about 100k-250k cash into it one or several properties dependent on area. Will not have a problem to get approved for mortgage(s). This is a retirement investment (have 20 years to go) and do not need any additional monthly cashflows short or mid term, so all will go to into more and more investments. Please note, I am not in a rush and will be ok to wait until Covid and/or the market correct itself, should I not find something. Spending a lot of time reading books, following YouTube, listening to podcasts as well (what sources do you recommend for a beginner to the US market). 

What’s my best strategy? What areas should I be looking at? Should I look at other states? Any other general recommendation appreciated!

Thank you in advance!