@Matthew Horstmyer You always base the rent on nearby similar rentals.

The cities in questions immediately surrounding VAFB are Lompoc and the Santa Maria/Orcutt area.Just curious on some thoughts as far as potential rental investments for the future, or even new development, as a large increase in base population would have to overflow into the nearby cities.Here's a link to one of the more recent articles on the topic: https://www.sanluisobispo.com/news/local/article237029734.html?

@Tom Henry it is tough because in my opinion you are taking your best options off the table, if you bought in the Bay area and move it'd be long distance with no family nearby and a low return just due to the area, so if those are the only two choices I'd go with LA, but I'd really dig into some cheaper markets to see if you're comfortable with that even if that is just central valley or inland empire, where you don't have to learn about other states and their issues.

How has everyone dealt with not having contractors nearby?

The tenants should have moved valuables away from the work area and if it was me I’d have tossed an old sheet on any nearby furniture, seems like common sense!

Since we wouldn't be nearby to check on it, that would make it more convenient for them to check on if we needed them to drop by.

Someone who is currently doing what you're looking to do in the same market or nearby market can help you save tons of time and money while showing you the ropes.If you want to do all or some of it on your own: - get friendly with local laws to fully understand what you can and can't do as a wholesaler.- Learn the process beginning to end -> Acquire leads - Convert lead to appointment (marketing, scripts, etc) - Negotiate contract - contract to closing/assignment of contract  - learn your target market(s) - Find cash buyers in your market(s)Best of luck to you moving forward!

Having family nearby can be advantageous, but also shouldn't govern your market area decision.

The Lake County Property Investors hosts a meetup nearby (not affiliated, just know of it)http://www.lcpia.org/Lots of great info here on BP as well. 

I'd be great to mmet you at ESADE, however, a quick coffee nearby my office would be easier.