Most of CA is a really tough RE market to break into.

I mean trying to make great returns for our investors is tough enough as it is and of course not every deal is going to go perfectly one just has to look at back to the GFC some pretty smart folks took a beating. 

Is gentrification happening quickly here, and is the area becoming safer?

,If you’re constrained by equity, it's going to be tough to find deals that pencil out in this environment.

Talent can be tough up there.

With no experience, you will have a tough time finding deals, finding private equity, and finding financing.

3.zillow is used for browsing but notorious for being inaccurate with multifamily 4. tough to say without know more. 

When you sell, you will likely get appreciation - but that is not the main purpose of your investment.Direct SF ownership might be safer - also, it might not be safer.   

Section 8 vouchers can be tough to come by - violations can cause someone to lose their voucher which can onlyhelp to improve my confidence. 

NYC is a very tough place to use a real estate license because it doesn't operate like other markets.