I'm waiting to be a little more experienced before tackling the southern california real estate market.

I think what I've been leaning towards is like some you guys mentioned possibly using another lender or HML in order to tackle something bigger while not completely exhausting my funds.

Find someone that is willing to take you in and do tasks for them in return for knowledge and training.When you know what you need to know, you will eventually grow up and learn what it is to be a responsible adult.THEN you tackle investing again.You simple are not at the right mind development to play with peoples lives like that. 

But once settled, I have money set aside to start tackling BRRRRs too.

Hi Steve, I'll tackle this from a lender's perpsective.

You will need around $50k depending on how much of a project you are willing to tackle.  20% down + closing costs + minor repairs.

Which zip codes should I tackle?

The fact that you said you don't use comps tells me that you're not ready to tackle Baltimore. 

Tackling the Challenge: My husband and I aren't afraid of challenges, but we also understand that this might be a bit over our heads at this point.

I have not done this yet, but it is my list to tackle next.