However, I would prefer if the property could support itself and not be a drain on my personal income.  

(This is the tip of the iceberg; I would prefer to chat with members than fire lengthy messages back and forth.)1.

If there's enough duplexes that it's likely you find one you like in a reasonable amount of time (less than a year), then start looking at them in your preferred area.

As far as benefit to the seller goes, @Matthew Paul I think you are probably right on the money and regardless of whether they would have preferred to stay in this house rather than move, it is likely providing them some excellent cash flow; and I'd be hard-pressed to come up with a deal that serves both parties better than the current situation. 

Starting small with multifamily properties is my ideal preference at the moment, as I focus on learning, growing, and immersing myself in as much information, data, and real-time experience as possible.As I build my investment portfolio, I could definitely see myself being interested in scaling up to larger acquisitions in the future, but for now, my focus is on mastering the fundamentals and starting small.

My market is San Diego so I do not have direct referral for a GC in north Hollywood but I will say my preferred way to get contractors is direct referral.

I prefer to stay further from the coast and hopefully further from major storm/flooding events (potentially lower insurance costs).  

@Fulati Paerhati With that kind of capital available most of my clients prefer areas like Memphis, Little Rock, DFW or even Houston

I would prefer an individual PM (not associated with any company) to manage my 3 doors in FL..

I would prefer to have my investments close to where I live.