I have to go out of state because I live in Los Angeles and real estate here is absolutely ridiculous.

.  -$600/sf houses (or even $400/sf) are definitely not out of the equation. 

Newer community with 40 more single family homes to be built ( out of 75 homes ).

Also tons of content out there on youtube as well and other podcasts. 

Was out of work for 9 months and also during that time my father had passed.

Here's the latest piece I found on Jackson County suing to undo the court order finding the assessments were illegal: https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article291980175.htmlYou can also check out some of the local news stations like fox4kc.com and KCTV5.com to keep up to date on what's happening with it. 

Anyone I can reach out to (CA)? 

Chronologically, I would suggest talking to a lender first to figure out how much you can qualify for.

I would certainly reach out to request more information.

What questions should I be asking, what should I be looking for and what should I watch out for as a future investor while searching and interviewing sponsoring brokers?