Just wondering if have considered investing in a nearby State, like Washington for instance? 

As you know already all of those cities/towns have great colleges and hospitals nearby, but also have some rough neighborhoods.

He can look in the town where he lives as well as nearby locations.I'd buy in a good neighbourhood where vacancy rates are lower. 

The property is located in K-Town (Los Angeles) and I'm hoping to find one near by, if possible. 

I watched tons of how-to videos that walked me step by step through many things I had never done.5) If you are rehabbing and on the fence about hiring out some of the work, get to know some of the maintenance folks at large apartment complexes nearby.

Check out the nearby members and network https://www.biggerpockets.com/meet, it will help you a lot to find partners that can help you out in investing.

There is a lot of repossessed houses nearby that practically scream, "Hey, look at me: I'm shadow inventory!"

I just built a spec home in nearby 32806 and sold it near the end of last year.Would be more than happy to hop on a brief call with you.I'll send you a pm with my contact info.

I have family near by to help keep an eye on things but I am trying to find a good manager because I am out of state.

It is relatively affordable for a major metro area, especially compared to the nearby Bay Area, and I feel that affordability will continue to attract people like me out of the Bay area.