We would then be responsible for paying him for the equity on the property (140 payments of $1k/mo)2) We want to maximize cash flow on the property, and my best guess is rent will be $1700/mo3) The house will likely be used to pull cash out to finance another real estate purchase in the future since we will most likely have between 65-100% equity in the house.

Purchase a duplex in San Diego and live in one unit - PROS: essentially get help paying my mortgage via rental income, proximity to rental property, maximizing FHA loan on a more expensive property (maximizing my down payment in a low interest rt environment) CONS: The market is so unbelievably expensive and rents are not comparatively high enough to really make most moves profitable, high Debt to Income ratio thereby limiting my ability to purchase again2.

Can anyone recommend an agent in this area comfortable working with first time investors? 

But if you're really comfortable with the platform, go for it!

I believe there are a lot of different investment types to be found here in Vegas, it’s more about what area you’re most comfortable working in.

I have not done a deal with him because I didn’t feel comfortable enough with the way that we spoke and the answers he gave me.

If it is newer then I would be more comfortable to pull the trigger.

As far as investing in a worse area,  I definitely would try to stay in an area you are comfortable living and renting in the future. 

If you are complacent in your current life then I find it unlikely you will go outside your comfort zone and invest in real estate.

If you have little or no experience with property management I would recommend a single family house or a 1-4 unit to start with based on personal preference to get some experience before diving into the larger properties but nothing says you can’t buy a bigger one to start with if you feel comfortable with it.