Last week I made a post about getting a US mortgage as a US citizen who lives abroad (https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/49/topics/1219693-getti...).

It cash flows a bit, nothing life changing.I bought a second duplex in LA this year that I am currently house hacking (live in one unit, the other is LTR).

Is it better to find one that's close to where I live (Fairfax, VA), or one that has knowledge of the local jurisdictions that my properties will need to adhere to?

Try researching organizations like Oxford House, which operates sober living homes nationwide, or check directories like TransitionalHousing.org for recovery housing programs in your area.

Living in Southern California, I realize the market here is quite expensive, and I’m not sure if it’s the best place to get started.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the documents.In New Jersey/Delaware Valley, the rates can be on the higher end due to the higher cost of legal services in these areas, with some attorneys charging upwards of $300 to $500 per hour.In areas with a lower cost of living, such as rural locations or states with a lower overall legal rate, the costs can be lower.It’s best to shop around and get quotes from a few attorneys familiar with private lending and real estate transactions.

Quote from @Nancy Almann: thanks @Kevin Sobilo - tenants who live in another, smaller apartment want this unit for their 4-legged family. 

Hope you done get calls asking how to operate the TV remote or how to watch live sports!

He needs to find a place for himself and his kids to live and that isn't your problem.

Not sure what you were looking for but people have a lot more going on in their lives than to have some desire to make you feel bad.