Investing in a single-family home in LA and expecting a good cash-on-cash return will be very difficult. 

Some commuters to Dallas, because rent is cheaper in Sherman than Dallas.As far as DFW metroplex goes, probably one of my favorite cities for investment right now.My thought is look at newer homes vs the 100 year old ones. 

Most of the stuff you can get at Home Depot or Lowes and get it the next day, so no delays once you decide on something. 

You have the mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, capital expenditures (roof, flooring, etc.), and also need to consider the cost of vacancies or bad tenants.I also recommend you charge market rate, for yourself and the tenant.

I think the area is short on larger (4-5 Bedroom) homes that can really accomodate a whole family.  

For VA loans, here are some solid options:Veterans United (veteransunited.com)Navy Federal Credit Union (navyfederal.org)Caliber Home Loans (caliberhomeloans.com)USAA (usaa.com)Not sure if I can post a link here in the forum. 

I have owned 3 homes in the past that I lived in.

To OP, it's not as scary as you think it is, this will be your first home purchase, you can purchase a multi family or SFR and house hack.

Condos don't appreciate at the same rate as single family homes, and you are always a newly elected board away from STRs getting banned in your building. 

You aren't in the area to view other homes and see what's happening in the market.