I'm new here and am eager to learn and maybe find a mentor.

Engaging with others can provide new perspectives and strategies that you might not have considered.Remember, the key to thriving in real estate is continuous learning and building a strong network.

Of course, I’d be using the equity I’ve gained in the current house so I wouldn’t have that anymore, but do not see any issues with the new builds appreciating as this is a rapidly growing area.I’m looking to discuss any pros/cons, faults, suggestions to this plan.

There are also plenty of books on owning and managing rental properties, both LTR and STR and even a new book published by BP on midterm rentals.

Full kitchen and bathroom remodel, new floors, drywall, interior and exterior paint, landscaping, and misc.

San Diego is expensive to Purchase, maintenance and cap ex is expensive, property tax at purchase is expensive in terms of dollars (average SFH prop tax at purchase is ~$1k/month in San Diego), new retail (MLS) purchases are negative cash flow when allocating properly for expenses, it is tenant friendly in terms of regulations but this is largely due to the big advantages LL have due to crazy low vacancy rates.  

can you try to target something that would have a higher ARV / an ARV closer to the median?

being new, the further away you are from the deals, the greater chance of something happening and you not being able to handle it correctly.

There was recently a new law enacted where a buyer has to sign an affadavit to verify that he or she is in compliance with state laws on foreign ownership of property.

New Hampshire and Vermont are much smaller states than most major metropolitans.