LA is a flip and hillside development market. :)

Just have to train your eye, what to look for.Happy hunting in LA.  I

LA is not Sacramento.

Do not get caught up trying to find the perfect deal or perfect market; your first 1-3 investment properties is working with a smart real estate agent/investor to guide you in making smart purchases, but really get you over the first hurdles of taking steps.Being in LA, I would figure doing a house hack would be difficult with prices and location, but if you choose that route think about going in on the loan with a friend and house hack it together being able to combine incomes and liguidity. 

I'm seeing if anyone on here lives near Denham Springs, LA. I

I would ensure your investment makes sense as a long-term rental as well - however this is hard because finding a cash-flowing property at the moment in LA is tricky.

I'm hoping you can shed a little light on the ADU / duplex situation here in LA. I

I'm not too familiar with NAF cash, but it sounds like you were going in very aggressive (~10% over asking and paying extra to finance an all cash offer) - I'm wondering what area in LA is still seeing that amount of competition where this is required?

One notable attraction in the area is the Hsi Lai Temple, a large Buddhist monastery that serves as a cultural and religious center.

I do totally understand the 45 minute drive to LA is definitely nothing like the 45 minute drive from the country to town!....