But I wanted to collect some recommendations in the meantime. 

You didn't mention what kind of law you're practicing. 

I recommend attending different Real Estate Investors Association meetings to network and get a feel for the landscape.

@Jay Fayz for SFR (1-4 family) Classifications are mostly opinion-based.Not aware of anyone tracking eviction rates, except Evictions Lab nonprofit that doesn't like landlords.Here's some info that might helpt:---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

If I have some cash do you recommend clearing the loan or invest instead for next property with proper planning ? 

I recommend considering your cash flow and debt-to-income ratio before making a decision, and consulting with a financial advisor to tailor the choice to your specific needs.Good luck!

Any recommendations for property managers in the Sacramento area? 

I’m curious if you’ve had experience with this approach, and if so, I’d appreciate any insights you might be able to share.Additionally, do you have a real estate agent you would recommend who specializes in investment properties in the area?

Best practice is to keep one or two payments in reserve from the buyers down payment for such instances.

Any recommendation?