Start with B-/C+ properties for Cash-flow so you can buy the class A and B properties for apprecation.

House-hacking would have been my go-to option but I understand since you are already comfortable where you are living.

—half the battle is the mindset, and you’ve got that nailed.Start with the basics: understand your market, run the numbers, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Let me simplify this for you Chad. 

There is a great group of members on here to connect with.

After a little while of this you can slow down and just use the one contractor you have gained a good relationship with and know their numbers on rehabs.

Will it immediately move to full transaction price, or does this jurisdiction use some sort of flat percentage increase.You should know how frequently the property will be reassessed thereafter.

This setup ensures that I stay in compliance with California’s FTB requirements.

Or they've dealt with one of the 50% of realtors that sells 1 house or less per year.

You can overcome this by putting more down, which reduces you ROE and COC return, but if the appreciation is good enough you can make up for this with overall returns over time as rents increase and the property appreciates.