This was very helpful and gave me a lot to think about! 

There are numerous investors, agents, etc. on BiggerPockets with experience in CA who would be able to give you a better perspective on the types of investments that work there.WIth regards to RentToRetirement, I worked with Zach and his team for my first property, detailed in the link below.

Hello @Michael Deitch,There is definitely a lot to learn about the market.

Good Point JoeA lot to think about Thanks for the feedback

I believe I need a property manager because I have a lot to learn and because I will be two hours away.

After high school, I moved around a lot to satisfy my wanderlust, spent a lot of time in Oklahoma (in and around Tulsa) and eventually made it far enough west to settle in Northern Colorado.Like many people here, my REI journey began when I listened to the audiobook "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" while on a road trip in the early 2000s.

Sound attenuation is a science and there's a lot to learn!

I'm curious to see how it plays out in the long run, but as is typical, those who got in early sure have a lot to benefit from if it keeps going north. 

There is a lot to learn that isn't in a book or podcast.

There is a lot to learn and your first deal most likely won't be a home run (would be nice though!).