Then once I find a property that I like to buy I'll start looking at the comps in the area that have been rented and are currently on the market to be rented and make sure that my mortgage payment will at least break even with the rental comps.I'm using rough estimates on Zillow and websites alike.

At least you have a starting point.

Especially anywhere in California, and particularly Los Angeles county.Talk to longtime neighbors who might know story and whereabouts of owner, but don’t accept as fact.I’d start with researching who the record owner is.

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

MAREI meets next week - we have a new meeting place starting on the 12th at the Double Tree. 

Currently have a great job but want to start acquiring  2-4 unit complexes.

Assets identified in this study include:Standard windows and doorsInterior ceilings and wallsBasic plumbing and electrical systemsBuilding structural elements and roofingBasic HVAC componentsWater heatersFire protectionThis engineering-based cost segregation study included the following methodology:Physical Inspection through a site visitDocumentation review including architectural plans, accounting records and construction documentsA cost analysis which utilizes engineering principles in order to allocate costs to their applicable asset classificationsCalculation of the depreciation schedule using MACRSAs a reminder, bonus depreciation started to phase out in 2023.

@Malcolm Brown it is great that you are thinking of the money to fund the deals you are going to get started with but understanding what a deal is, I think, should be the starting point. 

I am starting to get Lynn section 8 folks calling, but I have not gone through the process with them to know how they are with rental amounts.Yes, the ones with sec8 are in Haverhill. 

Be careful when you start thinking other sales will equate to the same numbers for your property.