If you don't already have boots-on-the-ground and a trusted network, it's going to be tougher to do.

But i was able to achieve the elusive infinite return on a majority of my RE and all of my investment RE that I purchased prior to 2020.Infinite return has the benefit that the finances are not the hindrance to scale.  

As for the third target market, Sacramento is close to you, it's a state capitol, relatively inexpensive, two major universities, great local culture...

@Ike Okwerekwu Recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Explore remote investing options like turnkey properties or out-of-state rentals with property managers, and use summers or gap years to network, analyze deals, and gain hands-on experience.

They have been incredibly transparent but they are currently deciding on a capital call or selling the property at a major loss (70-80%).

I have a large network plus in depth knowledge of the process to get a project like this off the ground. 

However, I do rely on my trusted network of local professionals for different parts of the process.

@Devin Peterson Definitely always down to network.

Bigger Pockets is a great place for education and networking.