Some of these renters are capitalizing on low interest rates and choosing to buy, but many are unable to buy due to lack of down payment or credit factors. 

Choosing a location near LA, accessible by a short flight or drive, will make it easier to check on your projects.

Build your home criteria based on investment goals, risk profile, returns desired, holding timeline.

One piece of advice I often repeat is that the goal of diversification is to reduce or eliminate any single point of failure.  

Once you're ready, create a goal (e.g., "I will buy at least one single-family home, duplex, triplex, or fourplex before the end of 2019") and then do it.

Building a network here can open doors to partnerships, mentorships, and local insights.3.Explore the Blogs and Podcasts: BiggerPockets has tons of content—blogs, podcasts, webinars—that cover everything from beginner strategies to advanced investment tactics.4.Utilize the Deal Analysis Tools: If you’re considering an investment, the deal analysis calculators are invaluable for running numbers and understanding potential returns.5.Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve, whether it’s learning a specific strategy or connecting with certain types of investors.

(currently  I have been sending my investors a 7 question survey to fill out for their criteria)My goal is to build genuine, long-term relationships with investors by creating opportunities that benefit everyone involved.

Regarding the deals you see listed after 2 years, sometimes investors choose to take advantage of the appreciation they've gotten and move it elsewhere.

She ended up using a 1031 to exchange into a smaller multifam near Austin that better aligned with her long-term goals.

The property you choose, is based on satisfying the financial requirements for that deal, at that time.Simple.