House Hacking Bay Area (3.5% down, owner occupied)

[Adriana V Alvarado]

Hi everyone! I am trying to house hack (3.5% down, owner-occupied, rent other rooms) in the Bay Area (driving distance about an hour from Redwood City and SF). I have already been pre-qualified for a loan. I am debating between house hacking in the Bay Area for my first property or buying my first property out of state with the help of a property management company. I am looking to at least break even in California. I have a long term goal of building equity/appreciation. Does anyone have any advice as I am just starting out on my real estate investment journey. Thank you!