I definitely have a biased opinion on our market here.

I'd be happy to come out of the deal with the 40k I paid for the property, the bank could sell it in the current market for close to 200k, and a flipper would still be able to make money on it after repairs. 

Consider long-term goals, market trends, improvements, tax benefits, and flexibility.

5 years from when you list it for sale on the market?

My goal is to focus on non-QM (Qualified Mortgage) clients and underserved markets.

I am looking to house hack, but I am having issues finding the right markets in Northern California that have good population growth or at least a market that has a steady stream of tenants.

Items I would like to see integrated:- CRM- Email Marketing Campaign (likely from CRM platform)- Issue/Break fix tracking

If we were to rent out the unit we live in the place would cashflow, even if it were slightly bellow market rent.  

have a very picturesque property that I have thought of using as an Airbnb type situation, initially with a building not is use....however I am on a creek, with a little dock.

I think VA is a better market in terms of price growth vs MD, and a lot of my investor clients agree.In terms of local networks for mentorship/networking/guidance, there are two I know of in NoVa that I have personally been to:NOVA REI Meetups - they meet at Tysons Mall once a month.Cash Flow Breakfast Clubs - there are a few locations including Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, etc.