We have, but its not what you think, we are lenders and buy loans - so we can easily work in most parts of the country.

@Melissa Johnstone Hey, I feel you—California’s market can be brutal!

Hey send me a DM, I have a closed ended second lien option for you that's a DSCR but I have to send you a questionnaire to make sure we can do it. 

Note investing can be broadly categorized into two classes – performing and non-performing notes.

You can also search Google and read reviews.

If you buy junkers and fix them up, you can make much larger returns. 

Best way to learn an area is to drive/walk around as much as you can.

There are houses that can be lived in and fixed up, or turned into multi-unit spaces (such as terraced houses with converted 'stables' at the back) for living in and earning income at the same time.

Can anyone recommend a reliable plumber or handyman who could install it for me?

Maybe you can find someone local that would work 4-5 hours one day a week?