How are values changing compared to the rest of the local market? 

I would vet contractors by finding local real estate agents that also work with investors, and/or a rehab investor in your area that does a lot of deals.

Many investors have had to get creative by emphasizing other property perks, like pools, proximity to local attractions, or unique experiences, to offset any beach access challenges. 

The most sure path for local RE investors seems to be with a near term exit. 

To be honest, I´m in the Maintenance & Construction for corporate businesses for some US companies in Mexico and we do some Real Estate down here also, but it´s way much different than the US, so I have much to learn from a lot of people around here and as @Julio Gonzalez, I think this is pretty much the right pad and place to start and to break my fears to start all over again from scratchAlso, I´ld like to hear more from @Justin Brickman why he voted for his city, pros and cons, it will help to read from a local...As I said before, thank you all guys for taking the time to write in this post and share some experienceDo you plan to owner occupy. $40k will not get you a non owner occupied San Diego property unless you find some unlikely alternate financing.

I would recommend searching for local Facebook groups to find events to attend.

I’ve been working exclusively in my local market since October and am excited to share that I already have a couple of deals under contract!

Our partner Carol Tarnowski brought this opportunity to us through her local connections.

Add thoughtful touches like a Keurig or French press, USB chargers, and local travel guides.

My name is Chad, I am a renovation construction PM professionally, currently starting a search to find/ invest in some Indianapolis and local area fix and flip projects.