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?

If it pays for itself, it provides you with a "free" place to live during the off-season.

My best friend lives in Kingman with his mother.

I have multiple listings across different parts of Florida and I don't even live in FL.

Quote from @Ven Bud: After hearing to lot of bp episodes on negative cash flow, I have a question.I am currently living in my primary residence and planning to purchase an investment property, and obviously it is going to be a negative cashflow (bay area), but I am of the opinion that as long as the rent on the investment property is atleast going to be greater than my current primary residence mortgage it can still considered as positive cash flow investment.The investment property is going to be in a much better location (for office commute, bay area proximity) than my primary residence.

I used to live in Tokyo for 6 years and would like to find a reason to go back more regularly but let me know if you want to connect!

I also pay my mortgage for the house I live in.

Live in one half, rent out the other.

Can you buy a duplex in Arkansas and live in one side just to get your feet wet and make sure you like the area?

Having a long-term rental while living abroad is do-able.Flipping houses while abroad, in my opinion, more difficult, especially if its your first go around with real estate.I would recommend taking a flight and staying in the area for a week and inspect the neighborhoods and make connections.You can reach out to @Elenis Camargo who has a PM company in Jacksonville.Best of luck though.