I strongly recommend looking at 3+ bedroom condos.

I'd want to know more information to make a good recommendation, but it sounds like you would have a strong argument if everything else is the same except for location.MP tasksTenant Management:Showing properties, screening applicants, and preparing leasesWelcoming tenants and addressing inquiriesCollecting rent and managing evictionsProperty Maintenance:Cleaning, repairs, and inspectionsAdministrative & Marketing:Supervising staff, purchasing supplies, and promoting rentals (ads and website)

I have a strong network here and know the key players/stakeholders in the community and am trying to learn how I can get involved to make an impact to change the community and restore the existing (beautiful) infrastructure. 

San Diego, to me, seems like a market that still has a lot of upside due to the building constraints in the area, the desirability, and the strong economy. 

If you understand it and have a strong feeling of its value go for it.

By this time next year, we aim to have invested in our first rental property and improved our credit, setting a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling future.I am open to any knowledge or advice anyone has to give as I am currently learning about real estate investing. 

I would forget about growing the portfolio and generational wealth until your husband finds a job and you reduce your credit card debt.Credit card debt has interest rates above 20%, there is a strong case that your rentals are not generating a 20% return.

Building a strong local team is crucial too.

The city has good macro economic factors and a strong economy - I looked for cities that were at least better than the national average when it came to population growth, wage growth, median sales price growth, etc 2.

Once I have a strong system set up, I don't want to dedicate too much time to real estate, though.It's also important to note that I'm a US citizen who wants to invest in US real estate, but I live abroad.