It might weight one location above another if it's already on your list of possibilities for other reasons, but it wouldn't be a determining factor in any way for me.Really, you can do real estate anywhere in some shape or form, so you can move where you want and figure out how to make real estate work there, or move where you want and figure out how to make real estate work for you "long distance".  

For rentals outside of Self Directed accounts we are able to get returns of approximately say 15-20% when figuring equity building and cash flow - this is with loans of 20% down-payment.

I figure I can study and get my license in the next month or two, just in time for the purchase.

So how do I figure out a value for the building?

I'm looking for properties in Chelsea, MA and Everett, MA and have been researching via the Assessor's Database, however, there are a number of use descriptions I've never heard of and can't seem to figure out.

Figure $125PSF3.

I am not originally from California, but I live here now due to my job and I figured I should try to learn as much as I can while I am here.

I'm a Wholesaler in San Diego County, California; and I'm currently having a bit of trouble figuring out how to market a deal I'm getting under contract to Cash Buyers.

Speaking for myself, I could do way better just taking the cash, paying the tax and buying great deals over time, than having to jump through the 1031 hoops, figure out the difference of paying the tax vs cost to defer, you may be surprised how much the 1031 will cost if you are buying several properties. also dont know how Cali works, but the tax rate may be lower depending how long you have owned/lived in the condo, and how you file taxes for it.  

I typically figure 3% and I'm usually pretty close.With that being said though, I have heard of people buying a property and only making $100 a month cash flow, and I wouldn't waste my time on that deal either, because my liquidity is limited.