Most investing strategy in the Bay is just appreciation.If you're interested in appreciation and cash flow, the Central Valley will be a great bet.

You are right - given the 30 day stay requirement in Sarasota County, long-term rentals might be your best bet.

I just completed "How to Invest in Real Estate" this morning, and am now diving into "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" now b/c of allll the accolades.

You can find properties in the price you indicated but they have historically appreciated less than inflation, they may attract poor tenants, they likely will have poor rent growth    Or house hack local market and need at low as 3.5% but easier at 5%.  

It’s how you remain “poor”, not how you gain financial independence.  

One was because of poor management and the other because the property needed major renovations to be competitive in the area. 

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

Lindbergh field is a poor airport.  

My parents always use to lament what a poor choice of majors it was.   

You're best bet is to talk to management and see if there is an exception that can be made based on your plan.