I’m currently getting my feet wet with the West Coast investments.

Do a couple deals locally and get your feet wet.  

I sell the fact that it is built better, never got wet while building & cheaper to heat as pluses over other homes.

I originally thought a SFR would be a good chance to get my feet wet in real estate investing but as I learn more, the benefits of multifamily properties are very appealing to me.  2) For a buy and hold property, is there a rule of thumb on how much should be attributed to rehab costs before bringing in a tenant?  

Hey Nicole,Hate to be wet blanket, but I'd be remiss not to point this out.

In hindsight, I should've gone the house hacking route for my first property to get my feet wet with minimal capital. 

Mike,     I like the idea of starting with a few deals that need only lipstic or cosmetic rehab to get my feet wet.

Since I don't have an unlimited source of funds and therefore cant afford an expensive mistake, I am seeking one of the safest options in this space to get started with just to get my feet wet.

Anything above low income I use laminate in living areas and vinyl in wet locations.

Based on his limited experience I would be interested in value add homes but not full Reno or gut jobs until he gets his feet wet.