My BIL won an affordable housing lottery in about 1986 45 min min from his job 2 bedroom townhome.

If you cannot get your personal finances in order then I would not suggest building. 

I am sure there are other things that would need to be done first.Someone posted about working part-time at a RE or investor's office, and I would be willing to do that for a fixed, short-term, like 6 months or so, but a lot of the job postings require a license. 

I'd suggest starting by joining your local Real Estate Investor Association and attending any real estate meet-ups in your area.

If you're just coming to visit to get a feel for the area, I can give some great suggestions for that as well. 

Do deep research to find areas good for investing, with lots of people renting, new jobs, more people moving in, steady money flow, and chances for the place's value to go up.

@Amanda Scheller Since you are able to house hack with as little as 3.5% to 5% down one suggestion would be to buy your first place in San Diego and hold on to the 4plex....If after your first purchase you feel good/confident about going to the next purchase, at that point you can consider selling the 4plex to purchase your second property in San Diego.  

@Randy Person had a good suggestion, tap into the local Real Estate Investor group athttps://www.facebook.com/groups/DaytonRealEstateInvesting, you'll find a lot of locals there happy to discuss with you.

Population and job growth, appreciation and much more.

Any suggestions/opinion will be appreciated.