I think the play with holding land long term would be to find a rough area that is in the path of re-gentrification. 

Okay, I've researched, researched researched ,spoke with loan specialists etc. and I'm on the right path to get started, but felt it would be wise to ask the BP community of their experience in hopes to be gifted with their knowledge so that I can better correlate between research and human endeavor.So I DO NOT earn 6 figures and therefore I've lived well below my means to save everything I do earn to begin my buy and hold path. 

The project is a green space/water reclamation area that may have a walking path and park.

We love this site and it has provided us so much information on our path to REI.

I live in NJ and have a couple of investments in PA. the only thing you have to figure is if you are going to manage the property or a management co.

Fundamentally, to the extent of my knowledge, the Bay will still thrive and grow for a long time to come.But the question of: "Is the cost of living in the Bay so high compared to the rest of the country (maybe historically, or just the affordability index) that it is now a very attractive option for a ton of people to start moving elsewhere?  

{btw: I too went down that path and created an S-Corp + LLC, but gave up both when I could not create my own Prop Mgmt Company}

@Jordan IngramWelcome to Bigger Pockets and also the best state in the country ;)  My wife and I live in Oxnard and we just completed our first flip. 

I'm sure most people only ask this question in their head.Take the course to learn about real estate.Take the classes as if you are on the path to getting licensed.  

I know I still have a long way to go in my journey to become financially independent, but I finally believe I am on the right path.