Hi Mitchell! I totally know what you are going through. It was tough to find a positive cash flowing property last year before I purchased my first home and investment property. I took Brandon's advice and analyzed over a hundred properties and all it took was one find and one offer and BOOM I had it! Don't give up, and I agree, look outskirts if you need to. I am currently managing my investment property in San Diego County from Sacramento and as long as you have your systems in place, it is totally doable to manage from afar. Honestly sometimes I'm even glad I'm not close by! I would be worrying and cruising by the house too much lol I have outside cameras so I just keep in touch that way and have really great handymen and cleaners on standby.
Hope this helps! Would love to connect if you'd like! Recently got my real estate license here in Sacramento and just eager to talk about real estate with others in general!
Very Respectfully,
Jessica