It would be local for you.  

Instead you will cash flow right out of the gate and appreciation is faster in those states with TLC properties or adding things like an ADU, or Carriage home on a bigger lot.Most of my investors that live in CA purchase in those states listed above and in most cases its easy to introduce them to local Seasoned realtors Contractors, Handy Men/Women that can help them save money and feel secure about the distance from home to REI.

I would also join your local Facebook pages for investors. 

@Chase Calhoun mainly we work with local builders but we have also purchased from the regional builders as well.

From what I've heard, local banks are sometimes more flexible than the big guys.A buddy of mine managed to snag a HELOC on his rental property, which isn't always straightforward, but it opened doors for him.

I also think people are looking to commute less with their kids, especially in elementary school and therefore want the local elementary school to be good enough.

I feel like I need to stay local (Greater Cincinnati OH)2-4 units.  

Ideally, I’d be buying and selling and potentially managing properties as a job, and be working the gardens and hobby farming, potentially attending farmers markets on weekends (we both love to create things).

I have a bank locally that will use DOT as collateral for loans.

If you’re thinking of branching out, cities like Austin or San Antonio are worth considering, but staying local has its perks too.