So, I started researching the subject.

So, when investing in areas they don’t really know, investors should research the different property Class submarkets.

To avoid pitfalls, research liens, check property conditions, and set a max bid before buying.

I am just starting to do market research and this great advice  

Hi Melissa,It sounds like you’re putting in some great thought and research into your investment strategy!

So, when investing in areas they don’t really know, investors should research the different property Class submarkets.

To be honest, there are countless real estate agents out there, and often you need to do your own research and schedule appointments to find the right fit.

Do your research and run some numbers, but if you can buy a 4br house, rent out the other three rooms and be left with a very small mortgage payment, you can start saving for the next one and then rinse and repeat every few years. 

Just need to spend a year somewhere I may have no desire to live.Hybrid Plan:Keep researching out-of-state markets and act if a great deal appears.Move back to LA, live in Airbnbs in to get a feel for neighborhoods (open to suggestions), and house hack once I find a deal.Would love to hear from those who’ve house-hacked in LA or NYC or started with out-of-state rentals—what would you do in my shoes?

@Todd Anderson hey Todd, thanks for all of your advice, you've given me a lot to think about.I've been going back and forth, I need to do some research and work out the numbers.