Secondly, I would say stay away from your own state because CA is very hard to cash flow on rentals. 

I’m looking at investing outside of California; mainly Kansas.

Have you visited any of the areas?

I would be wary of buying a home in a residential neighborhood in ABQ with the goal of having a STR: Only CA rivals NM in terms of economic governmental tampering.

Currently I am in escrow in southern california for an A class asset that is 200k under value.

You also can look at self managing, I self manage a property few hours away I never visit.

I came across a fantastic article on the top US Road trips and unsurprisingly The Oregon Coast took the top spot :) Top 7 Scenic US Coastal Road Trips:- Oregon - Pacific Coast- California - Pacific Coast- Maine - Route 1 - North Carolina - Outer Banks- Alabama - Connection By Way- North Florida - A1A - Florida Keys - A1AI might move The Keys up this list a little..but the entire Oregon Coast is breathtaking. 

I currently live in Southern California but am looking to dip my toes into real estate investing via purchasing a rental investment property in Kansas City (I have roots there, visit fairly often, have real estate connections there, etc.).

I've visited East TN, and  Wester North Car. 

It's a quick visit, and it's a very strong market for investors right now.Happy to share some resources about the city if you'd like.