So there are benefits to each.In terms of my own investing strategy, I am leaning towards triplex & quads to start, a couple of small single family homes (maybe 3) to rent, and long term (5+ years) flips and apartments.

I would also like someone who has experience working with LLCs and sole-proprietors and who can advise on the benefits of different legal entities. 

And you get the benefit of having over 100 past ones to catch up on.Locate and attend 3 different local REIA club meetings great place to meet people gather resources and info.

And you get the benefit of having over 100 past ones to catch up on.Locate and attend 3 different local REIA club meetings great place to meet people gather resources and info.

I have not even including any Appreciation and tax benefit.

You're going to encounter more drama and crackhead wannabe contractors going the Craigslist route but it's also a good bet at beating down the many times ridiculous prices about 90% of companies charge when the company they work for is more than likely only paying them 15 to 20 bucks an hour anyway and offering meager benefits.

Is there any way I would benefit from starting this process sooner while I'm still on the west coast?

So - I'm wondering if any of you can weigh in on the benefits of being in many different areas vs the benefits of being more concentrated in fewer ones.  

Both my wife and I have VA loan benefits so we were able to turn former primary residences into rentals since we didn't need to free up the equity.

The risk you'd have probably doesn't outweigh the benefit.