While working in the IT sphere, I want to become a landlord and a investor in the Socal market.

In NY different boroughs and locations can really be different animals when it comes to getting listings.But getting Listings 101 is:-Door-knocking-Cold-calling-Sphere of Influence-Farming-Direct Mail-Networking-Home owner association meetingsEtc....

Diversification is your friend.The real estate sponsors that I rate highly during this stage are Grubb Properties (effectively no asset management fees or promote as a result of their OZ fund association), Front Street Partners, Broadstone NNN and MLG.

I am currently networking to build my sphere of influence both inner and outer circle.

Start talking with friends and family to see if you can find someone in your sphere who would be interested in a loan secured by a well performing rental property. 

Open risers are permitted, provided that the opening between treads does not permit the passage of a 4-inch diameter (102 mm) sphere.

If the private lenders don't meet this criteria, it is considered a violation by the SEC.If you are borrowing from 'family or friends' also called 'sphere of influence', then the income and net worth rules mentioned above don't apply. 

Then, pack the white oakum, and re-pour lead or get white oakum and a home depot tube below (NOT RECOMMENDED). http://www.homedepot.com/p/10-3-oz-Plastic-Seal-25...If you have the tools go for it, otherwise, don't bother. 

It will be a great help to you not only as a landlord but in other spheres of life too. 

Who do you need on your team or sphere of influence to help you?