But I really see this as just business-  I want the best market I can get into. 

I have sold a couple of businesses as well, and speaking from experience, you are never more vulnerable to make a mistake than when you are sitting on a giant pile of cash.Also, I agree with @Corey Conklin - I'm a big fan of "overflow cities/towns" in the sun belt.

I would like to learn the business.

It links to our business bank account and our business credit card so come tax time, deductions should be easier.

Ever since that conversation I went on a deep dive of research and studying to figure out how to accomplish these wild ambitions of mine.She helped me get my first property when I was 24 years old, which we ended up selling after a few years and using the revenue to purchase another property.

One thing to consider is that in terms of wealth building and Kiyosaki's Cashflow Quadrant, owing a rental and doing work yourself is putting you in the self-employed quadrant, not Business Owner or Investor.I think there are a lot of factors stacked against California for long term rentals, and I think you know it too! 

I am glad to be doing business with his company.

Quote from @Griffin Malcolm: Open an LLC and apply for a small business line of credit from Key Bank.

Some go out of business.

Network in person, see if they have a publication where you can post your deals and what you are looking for, and if there is a larger annual conference for investors locally consider getting a vendor table to talk about your business and what you are looking for.