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

It was tough but worth it in the long run—literally!

This is networking, tapping your current list of friends, family, co-workers, other real estate investors, etc.Ideal duration depends on business plan: I, personally, am a fan of long-term fixed rate loans.  

Meaning, if you only put 5-10% down, then it will be tough to even get a HELOC.

I may need to be paying off rentals in high market times such as these when it is tough to find a cash flowing property as more and more rental income will in turn be going towards principal and not the bank.

IE the buyer themselves buys low end tough to manage assets because they look great on paper.

The way I see it is most homes will cost you 25% down and renovations out of state will be difficult or very expensive so the ability to force appreciation becomes tough.  

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

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

Are all of your workers licensed and insured?