Since you won't be local- it may be worthwhile to use a property manager.

@Mark Albini Google some of the California projects I'm always seeing on the local news here, you'll see how elaborate they can be, The only ones I'm seeing get done with zoning changes are the ones that have some sort of Non-profit or charitable component.

Get to a local meetingTHIS is how you start :) Good luck 

Thanks Hitanshu - I just financed a 4-Plex and went with a local credit union.

Partnering with Joslyn Lukestich-Lewis provided valuable local insights, making this an attractive and strategic investment for Partner Driven.

I am looking for property management recommendations in the area, and would prefer local managers, but am keeping options open.

Partnering with Seth Choate provided valuable local insights, making this an attractive and strategic investment for Partner Driven.

I'd recommend researching areas to see that they have:- Low unemployment- High demand for housing - relatively low inventory- local job creation/booming local economy- high avg/median income- increasing population- low average days-on-market (DOM)- history of rent and property value increases YOY- low crime- highly-rated schools (or above average)I'd compare the target neighborhood to surrounding neighborhoods and/or nearest metro areas. 

If you put the location in your post/bio you’re more likely to get local experts to weigh in.

Partnering with Jason Arguelles provided valuable local insights, making this an attractive and strategic investment for Partner Driven.