I'd say interview at the places you mentioned (if you feel they could be a good potential fit) and go in there with a list of questions you feel will help you make an informed decision.I'm in Queens, not far from you, feel free to reach out anytime.

There are a lot of properties listed in the marketplace in the horribly ghetto cities of New Jersey like Newark, Trenton, Elizabeth, Paterson, etc. 

working on Brooklyn, Queens, and Long island for now.

Yet I recognize the opportunity to leverage primary home mortgage rate and a live in flip situation long term.One of the scenarios I recently glanced at was a nicer high end duplex in Elizabeth area, big yard and really nice neighborhood.

Can't say anything about California as I have no experience in that market but there are some very savvy investors on here that can provide more info about Cali @Jay Hinrichs @Elizabeth Colegrove are two off the top of my head (@Brian Gibbons as well)

In early 2002, I actually re-negotiated my month to month lease in Astoria Queens down from $1600 to $1200, because there were so many cheap rentals available.  

@Chris Purcell Our team consists of 10 real estate agents and associate brokers that focuses on commercial real estate in Brooklyn and Queens.  

@Elizabeth M.  

@Elizabeth Wilson how much did the stained (I'm assuming polished) concrete cost you per sq.ft?

Gulf front, 6th floor (so your views are over the tops of the palm trees) master bedroom with a king to sleep and an ensuite, two other queens, another bath and full kitchen.