Small-time HMLs may not require an appraisal but this could be because they will drive out and view the property themselves.

I have started driving for dollars, and have a small list of properties I'm going to send hand written letters to.

That drive is ridiculously long and boring and could maybe revitalize some struggling smaller Texan communities that are just a day's drive too far for Southeast Texan families to visit on a weekend.

I'd like to live within 30-mins driving or Uber to a major hub airport with affordable, direct international flights (EWR, JFK, MIA, FLL, ORD etc. are examples).

An example of that is to combine personal driving with business driving. 

I’m not saying out of state is a bad choice, but perhaps for your first deal, get something you can drive to right away, get used to managing a property and tenants.As far as investing in LA, I would say, go with a multi unit first choice.

My recent discovery of (and obsession for) the bigger pockets podcast has given me tons of motivation and a drive for action!

I'm impressed by your initiative and drive.

I work all the way in Philadelphia currently which is a 2hr drive (100miles) 1 way, 4 days a week 10hr shift.

Sounds like you have time so driving for destressed property would be a way to generate a list to cold call or door knock.