You must live in the house first, as you cannot buy it for the use a rental.

Los Angeles County continues to grapple with devastating wildfires that have claimed five lives, destroyed over 2,000 structures and forced the evacuation of at least 130,000 residents.

Would your parents be interested in partnering on a duplex where you live in one side with a roommate and manage the other side rental? 

You may also want to consider purchasing multi-unit properties and live in one of the units.

I needed to buy my first investment and also needed a place to live.

Furthermore, it aligns with the growing trend of home improvements that enhance daily living while maximizing investment returns.

Rodrigues' recommendation may change this), but my next question would be, are there any cities/markets where 1 of the following are true: 1) You have family/friends that live there, 2) You travel there frequently (either for vacation, work, etc.), or 3) Somewhere else you've lived before AND know the area well?

Quote from @Maurice Nkonsissie: HelloMy name is Maurice, I live in the greater DMV area.

Preferably out of state near Charlotte NC where our daughter lives.  

@Marcus Stokescan you start with a live-in flip or house hack instead?