A lot of people sleep on properties that have been sitting, but where some profitable opportunities are.That said, I’ve been spending a lot of time working directly with investors and sourcing off-market multifamily deals—ones that never make it to Zillow or Redfin.

One of the best ways(not the most exciting) is cold calling owners.

I was debating if I should partner with a friend or family member who is willing to work on a property together. ill be sure to make sure things are done legally and fairly so no one get short sighted and things don't get messy.

Lessons learned about PA landlord tenant law. can only collect one month rent value as security deposit or else judge makes you give it back.

The internet makes the world very small.As far as buying out of state, one challenge I did not see any other replies mention is your occupancy. 

Refinance is one way to do it, if you want to avoid getting new debt because cash flow is high look into lease options to buy or executory contracts.

This fits my plan for a couple of reasons, I plan to rent one unit long team and as I travel a fair bit for work I'll Airbnb the second unit when I'm overseas.

Thsi one is only asked monthly, not weekly.

When I do find one I will let you know about inspection. 

California is one of the states that will hound you for the proof your 1031 is still valid, only a California expert could say if converting it to your primary would trigger that tax.