SFR prices are dictated by owner occupants, who are happy to overpay as a lifestyle decision.

Right now, we're a bunch of strangers commenting on your post - we don't know your background, financial situation, W2 job, lifestyle (single, married, kids, etc), risk tolerance etc (not that you should share all that information on a public forum). 

I have high revenue from my rentals and have diversified other investments that cover my lifestyle.  

I joined with the intent to surround myself with others in the field and build my confidence and understanding of the subject matter (:I live a disciplined lifestyle when managing my expenses and living below my means.

For example, when most of my development clients started building their portfolios, they picked up properties in areas where at least 1 of 3 things was almost always present: 1) They currently or have previously lived in the area, 2) they have family or friends that attend religious services in the area, or 3) they regularly visit family or friends that live in the area.

I definitely have some rose tinted glasses on and am drawn to the idea of 'lifestyle investing' hence why I am trying to get more realistic/experienced advice here.Kathryn and Jonathan, if I had to summarize your feedback;-If it seems so great, it will be competitive -If it is competitive, I am massively disadvantaged not being local/experienced in the market.

Make sure it fits your lifestyle. 

The other one is not in California, quit W2 at age 37 scaled from 2014 to 2021 with 5 duplexes, quit W2 during COVID, lives a frugal lifestyle and benefitted from the huge increase in property values and low interest rates. 

Personal background: Married with no kids, 100% debt free, live a rather tame lifestyle and don't spend large amounts of money, two newer vehicles (2020 & 2024) so no vehicle purchases expected for the next 10 years. 

Lifestyle addition, B.