It's good to start building relationships in your target market.

One thing you have going for you is the apartments are vacant which makes the testing a lot easier.  

Easier said than done, but can be done and is a good place to start.

If you buy a lot thats already subdivided and approved for a single family home its much easier.

@Alan E. down stairs will be easier to rent out. 

I've considered driving for dollars but don't know how to target specific neighborhoods in my price range.

Long term game, we are looking to really target multifamily properties for long term wealth accumulation and cash flow, but I don't see how that could even be remotely possible in the CA market without substantial starting capital.Some of my other thoughts creating our indecisiveness include:-Despite the amount of research and networking we do, would out of state investing for a beginner not be advised?

My outlook for starting out with condos in the Boston market as it’ll be easier to maintain and to immediately build equity.

Getting the due diligence items you need and getting access to the property early on, while you and the seller still like each other, will make it a lot easier.

Non renewing is so much easier and less expensive than having to evict.