That is why I recommend the purchase of a less expensive unit outside of the major hubs of SoCal.

@Tzvi Balsam They are decent on properties that are in or near major population hubs. 45 min or more away from a large population severely decreases the likelihood of success for them.

Bit of background, my hubs is the brains of our real estate investment operation (he loves all things math & spreadsheets -- I'm slowly learning) and I'm looking to compliment his skill set with my own!

People renting out their condo in my complex is also around $2800+ being so close to shops like Target and Trader Joe's...and rumors of google moving in next door and being next to a major transportation HUB, the prices are justified here in Silicon Valley.So my question is, is it a bad idea or is it even possible to obtain a HELOC to obtain a 20% down on a new "move-up" home?

There are huge warehouses on 35th St. next to the interstate (Chewy, Fed Ex hub, Autozone, and another warehouse being built currently). 

Since you're experienced with tech, you should consider creating a professional website that will serve as the hub for all your marketing efforts.

There are multiple factors to consider, especially in Los Angeles where not only are there sub markets and pocket neighborhoods, but also hubs that drive variation in rent (consider hipster stretches in Silverlake, Highland Park, Echo Park, etc.).

Regarding Fort Gordon being primarily a Signals training location - that was certainly true for most of its history, but the identity of the Fort has been changing to that of a Cyber hub.  

In our view, DFW has some very unique characteristics most important is middle of the country logistics / transportation hub (great freeway system, rail and DFW airport), HQs for a growing number of companies in diverse industries.  

It has been redefining itself from a steel town to a medical/tech hub the past 5 or so years.