I'd always be naturally wary of moving any asset into California because of the "California Clawback" which allows CA to track any asset that goes back from CA to any place else via a 1031. 

Also it is a bit of a hassle keeping track of multiple insurance policies, tax statements, and mortgage information for multiple properties compared to a single one for a 4-plex.Overall, both strategies are great, and I would gladly buy more small multi-faimly or single family homes if they meet my criteria.

I want to open an American bank account so that I can start building some sort of track record in the United States.

@Katie Ferguson @Michele Zugschwerdt is on the right track here.  

It definitely sounds like you are on the right track!! 

Some investors have lower risk tolerance and might not be the right fit for someone new without a track record.

Part of me wants to jump into the 4 unit and get on the fast track but it is an area that is less populated then the SFH nevertheless I know it can still be rented there. 

The business is this:PROSPECTING, which leads toAPPOINTMENT SETTING, then toCONTRACT SIGNING.each step needs Mindset, Know what to say and How to say it.start with one PROVEN strategy and Prospect 2 hours a day and do 2 open houses a week for 90 days and you will have momentum.i don't know if you need outside training because I don't know what training is already provided. track your numbers too. 

Asking price: $365,000ARV: $540000 (10% discount)After Repair Value (ARV):540000City Evaluation419,100Cost of Property:365,000Estimated Repair Cost:135-165k (50% more)Cost contingency (8%):14400 - 17600 (doubled)Total Gross Profit Marginnegative $7600 - $25600 unless you have a track record of success to offset i would start with way less rosey numbers and then adjust from there. on reviewing your numbers it seems very optimistic without much room for error. 

You are on the right track looking to invest in the 1-4 unit space.