This will be my first big investment and I am extremely nervous about buying it and watching it fall apart and fall into a money pit any suggestions on what to look for out and inside of the duplex?

I am sure you have seen this Extreme hoarder situation..

However, if that area is being passed over for other more progressive and upwardly mobile (pun intended) areas I'd proceed with extreme caution unless you want to end up being a slum lord.There's an age old adage in this industry, "The higher the rent the lower the value of the home goes".

Im not extremely knowledgeable with markets outside of my area here.

Extremely interested in hearing about this.

For example, a lot of sellers are still extremely motivated by the strong demand we've had in Montreal but if you're someone with a bit of patience and people skills, you can still close on a winning deal if you're taking the time to educate the sellers on where the market is now and how the numbers have to make some sense before placing an offer. 

I'm extremely excited and motivated as I move into this phase of my life.

Im extremely interested in those list sources.. thank you in advance for your help with that!

I do not advise Ontario due to the extremely pro tenant policy of our Landlord Tenant Board, professional tenants and anti landlord welfare pimps.

It is extremely hard to find properties in South California that can cash flow but it is possible if you continue to look and be patient.