We usually have to do one or two a loan.IMO they seem like cya for a distant underwriter.We make them short and sweet.

Or, is there some distant cousin that's going to show up with a valid claim that they had some ownership and were not properly compensated? 

So that got me thinking, for a lot of Mellennials buying a home is a distant dream.

As a Southern California investor, keep in mind that properties are expensive in most areas that are desirable - you aren't likely to find the opportunities for properties that meet those "1% rule" or "2% rule" that you'll hear investors in some other states talking about.My personal preference would be to find a nearby property to start learning the ropes with before you go for something more distant, and that would help you draw a circle around your home to allow you to start digging into neighborhoods and getting a feel for prices. 

Should I continue to invest in the market that I know, but is now a long distant investment?  

. ;-) I know, and I agree, and I though about it for other locations, but the difficulty and time requirement of distant real estate ownership is not something I can take on right now.

The certified letter would definitely come across as a bit aggressive and distant.

Is it better to work with a local lender, or distant relationship is no issues here? 

Also If I sell my $200 house for 100k one day in the distant future.

Las Vegas you could include as a distant LA suburb almost depending on traffic right or quick 45 min flight.