Hi BPSince joining the BP community, I've been immersed in everything REI...and loving every minute!

Je peux le pratiquer avec ma femme (elle a fait French Immersion) mais nous sommes trop lazy! 

There are jurisdictions (parish to parish here) that have very different attitudes toward landlord vs tenant situations.There are reasons why LA is where it is on this list:http://www.instituteforlegalreform.com/statesYour tenants are immersed in advertising (billboard, TV, radio, etc.) to  pursue legal action in the event of any accident, injury or incident and with "hungry" attorneys everywhere you turn, you will have to defend yourself sooner or later.It sounds like your father-in-law is great for the role you want him to play.  

I am finally ready to take to the leap and completely immerse myself in the real estate world.

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions,take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to yourexisting holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

I immersed myself in that area, learned values, developed relationships, found mgmt, and other items.My caution is be very careful before buying properties out of area and  really research potential team members.

 :)  It means immersing yourself in the biz.  

Immerse yourself in the forums and podcasts.

My feeling is that since it'll be my first time visiting these cities, and this is my first major step towards property investing in general, I wanted to get a taste of some of these places first, meet some people, visit areas/neighborhoods, and see whatever properties I can, and then zero in on where I liked best for perhaps a longer stay with a deeper immersion in those markets at a later date.

This happens to those who are fully immersed in a community.