Southern CA is highly likely to remain a desirable place to live so it seems like a fairly safe investment.

I have no desire to manage multi-family buildings. 

I've met some investors who write a clause into their agreement with the GC that there will be a daily late charge if not completed by the agreed-to date (might be something to consider next time to help keep the GC focused on the desired completion date.)

I desire to be in my own backyard, and would love to see growth here; in my state of birth.

You may have a bit higher ratio in a less desirable area on an older home or with a section8 tenant.

For example, if you are looking to connect with other members near you, want to learn from people in a specific area you’d like to invest in, or have a desire to find people interested in certain topics, you could use the search feature here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersI really like the alerts feature that can quickly guide you to current topics that may be of interest: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsThere are a few self-contained guides that you can access here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides

For example, if you are looking to connect with other members near you, want to learn from people in a specific area you’d like to invest in, or have a desire to find people interested in certain topics, you could use the search feature here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersI really like the alerts feature that can quickly guide you to current topics that may be of interest: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsThere are a few self-contained guides that you can access here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides

For example, if you are looking to connect with other members near you, want to learn from people in a specific area you’d like to invest in, or have a desire to find people interested in certain topics, you could use the search feature here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersI really like the alerts feature that can quickly guide you to current topics that may be of interest: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsThere are a few self-contained guides that you can access here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides

I have a strong desire to learn about real estate investing and to ultimately be "free."  

If someone brings you a deal, it fits your criteria and it’s going to make you money.... don’t worry about how much the wholesaler is making, if the RE agent is getting some sort of kickback, etc, etc.... sure the realtor will get first pick in most instances but they might not have the time, Capital, knowledge or desire to pursue a deal.