I've applied to commercial brokerage companies and real estate fin-tech companies in my area (Los Angeles), but I'm trying to broaden my search.

I think having a job related to real estate for you would broaden your idea of where to start off. good luck with your future rentals!!

@Mark Franks The Northern NJ market seems to get tighter and tighter, as a result you have to be VERY patient because you're going to lose deals or find that properties sell unbelievably fast with that being said you can still find what youre looking for, if you use these tips1) Broaden your search: Can you live in another city or county?

My initial interest is wholesaling but I am looking forward to broadening that over the years to come. 

They are well-funded, so we can expect them to continue to grow, broaden their suite and fix any issues. 

Also do you guys consistently work with other investors to leverage time and networking of finding deals, and broadening into new markets?

So I thought I'd put it to you to help with the best ideas for investing this 30k wisely so that I start broadening my income base in the most efficient way. 

I didn't realize that the New Orleans market is so completely saturated...I'll have to try to broaden my search in location while looking for potential properties.

Get some rental management books off of biggerpockets to assist in broadening your knowledge about investing and management.

That has changed the way I think about some things or at least broadened the thinking.