For cash flow, I'd recommend checking out the Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point) or Fayetteville in NC and Sumter and Florence in SC. 

California is the worst with taxes.

Pay the mortgage.

I built two that way and out of the 90 homes in Ivy Ridge estate if I think through it.

Start by scheduling a walk-through to assess the property and confirm renovation needs.

You're in the right place to learn about real estate investing.

I recommend comparing lenders to make sure you get some good terms and financing options for your next investment!

But these are the people who may also have so much equity they may surpass the $500k of gain they get tax-free. 

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

Take your time and don't let FOMO distract you from your long term goals. 20 years from now, it won't matter whether you bought a house this year or next.