I am engineer by trade, so feel an obligation to understand as much as I can upfront.My short term goals involve my finding deals for experienced real estate investors, hopefully in exchange for your criteria and experience in this market. 

That will help connect you with locals who are involved in the investing scene.

@Lydron P Aguillera thanks for the positive feedback, how’d you get involved in real estate and how long have you been at it?

Long term though, I'd probably make more money if I sacrificed some work time to get involved with a group.

On a personal note, I've found that developing curiosity as a lifelong habit has made for a pretty fulfilling life, both in and outside of investing. 

Bakersfield is somewhere that is growing with new jobs, new development, and new infrastructure.  

I have a Standard Pacific home and the roof developed a leak just after ten years.

Make sure to separate any liability that is involved with this process.

@Shawn Coverdell QuickBooks and other bookkeeping software make life easier for everyone involved when those who know how to use it are the ones using it.

The VA Reno Loan is a good product but involves tons of paperwork.