It's great for a landlord if the tenant is properly screened. 

Landlord-tenant regulations are a bit complex in California and getting hands on is the best way to learn before expanding into larger investments. 

@James Wise MICHIGAN UPDATE: new law went into effect January 2, that landlords can no longer discriminate on tenant income source.

Rentals was not a thought to me in those days I was a land flipper.. had absolutely no interest in being a landlord.. and basically still dont to this day :) yes I have some rentals for tax purposes but not really for wealth building purposes.

You can earn strong appreciation but also lose a lot as the entire state becomes increasingly hostile to landlords.

To get started, consider focusing on house hacking in California with properties like duplexes or single-family homes with ADUs, or explore out-of-state rentals in landlord-friendly markets like Ohio or Georgia.

I borrowed more money and built a new detail shop; no more crummy landlord!

A landlord friendly state won't save you from a bad deal.Not trying to be discouraging, just realistic. 

First, Texas is one of the most landlord friendly states in terms of laws.

A landlord cant deduct home office, cant save for his retirement, nothing.