I'm obviously biased, but I think working with a broker will speed up your learning curve.If the broker you work with isn't transparent on everything they do with you (not for you), I recommend finding another broker.

Self-Serving Bias.

Also, it lends itself to unconscious bias because we are more likely to view negatively people who are different than us.

I’m biased, but I’ll chime in with @James Wachob and cast my vote for Memphis.Memphis offers incredible logistical advantages: the largest commercial airport in the world, all major US railroads converging here, and a thriving distribution hub.

I've seen banks be very competitive with blanket loans that cover multiple properties and/or multi-family properties, e.g. 5+ units.Mortgage Brokers (obviously I'm biased) - Brokers have the ability to work with all of the above and can get you to the best lender for your scenario right away instead of having you waste your time with the wrong type of lender.

Your personal bias is overwhelmingly appararent and renders most of what you say, when you respond to me, useless.

I don't speak of it to slander CA, I am not bias in any direction, it's just the truth of my experiences in CA.

Trust me, I have been there.I suggest you try to House hack in cities that you are already familiar with and have some connection with.Hire a great investor agent in that market and ask them all your questions and concerns.That I believe is the best way to get personalized advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.You giving out Cleeveland and Toledo on your post will only attract biased opinions and advise.Only you know what you truly like, want, and can deal with.As Nicolas said, read this post and comments and hope that gives you a new perspective. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...Goodluck and keep us posted.

I might be bias, but most large corporations are focused so much on scaling that they lose touch on the client's needs.

@Venecia BaezHouse hacking is absolutely the best way to get started in RE investing (in my bias opinion).