My first thought process before I started reading up on real estate and listening to the many podcasts on this platform was to get into the flipping side of SFR's, but the more and more I read I feel that buy and holds are probably the best bet for building wealth and having a monthly income stream coming in from your investments.I just have no idea where to start.

I knew eventually it would start spilling over and people would move inland toward a nice area like Sacramento to find a great place to live at a much cheaper standard of living.  

I'm not familiar w/ the build cost in SAC, I assume it's higher than normal bc of spill over from Bay Area and shortage of labor, but let's say $200/sqft to build, avg unit is maybe 800 sqft?

It doesn't generate as much ROI as actually owning, but private lending is another stream.

While I have been looking at first time home buyer programs for mortgage lending, it doesn't seem feasible as I don't have a real desire to actually live in the unit (just make it run money and rent out all the units if possible) because my current location is already operating as a revenue stream (I live in a multi floor 5 BR unit and rent out 4 rooms).

They make a good chunk of their money by pitching a never ending stream of newbies who have not yet figured out the scam. 

There are some rough areas crime wise, and there is an area that you'll want to avoid affected by the "Collesium Plume" chemical spill area. 

Northwest corner has spill over from Chicago. 

My mid term rentals(30+ days) typically have more consistent revenue streams with lower revenue than STR but allow for rate increases depending on demand.

Once you find an agent that becomes your wingman and is not looking for 1 commission but for a constant stream of commission ... you will have no interest in looking elsewhere.Analyze and interview your prospective agent and make sure he/she understands what he/she is dealing with.