But investing OOS intimidates me by not understanding the local area as much and relying on obtaining quality agents, contractors, and potentially property management.Does anyone have any sound advice for the best step in securing a long-term financial future for someone in my position given my location/circumstances (San Diego,CA)?

They always fall back on BS like "quality of finishes are different" or "the other house had nicer landscaping".

Lots of tech money, diversified economy, big influx of high-earners, growing population, awesome quality of life.

However, I’m still not seeing quality leads.I get some inquiries but when I send a link to our prescreening form the potential tenants don’t “pass” the prescreening.

(Quality) Contractor relationships have been the hardest piece of the puzzle for me in Austin. 

The investor has a clock ticking on costs whereas in the case of the homeowner client, they only want the speed out of convenience to "bring their toothbrush" moreover than worrying about holding costs so this penalty/bonus works much better with flipper clients.Where were you when I needed a good contractor Bruce?!

@Eric Stugart Factors like overall property cost, down payment, quality tenant should be characteristics to look into as well.

A personal loan may reduce the speed at which debt interest accumulates, but will have not by itself pay off debt faster. 

I have found, at least in my market, that I get a better quality of applicant and if tenants know there is no "man" to screw over they will be happy to pay rent even in times of black swan events. 

Lets just speed up the court process to see if it was a valid foreclosure or not.