I've not yet done the math to determine which strategy would save me more money, but the big cons of this areNo primary residence, therefore slightly higher interest rates, 20 - 25% down (but depending on the market, this may very well be equivalent to 3.5 - 5% down in LA).Depends on the quality of tenant screening, but it's probably safer to assume that they won't take as great care of the property as I would.Probably need a property manager, professional or tenant.Either strategy seems to net me the same cost around $1,500 monthly, but I'm biased towards Los Angeles as I can rent to friends which solves a lot of the tenant/landlord issues.I'm not looking for anyone to give me all the answers but would appreciate any insight, food for thought, and constructive criticism. 

Just some food for thought.

Expendable income attracts all the cool food joints, breweries, yoga studios, etc. that millennials love.Love prices + cool stuff = millennials crack.And before you know it the area has been "gentrified 2.0" and blows up like crazy.

We're the location for the upcoming World Equestrian Games, being held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center.You can find great artists in the River Arts District using many different mediums for their expression.We have mountain views, hikes, state/national parks, the French Broad River, Kayaking, Fly Fishing, Mountain Biking, good food, beer, and wine. 

Just food for thought.

Of course you have to qualify as an accredited investor for most, but if you do qualify it gives you the opportunity to get into bigger deals/more units that you otherwise would not be able to accomplish or afford on your own.You'll also be a limited partner in syndications, i.e. no active role in managing the property, so you'd have to be okay with that as well.Just food for thought!

Not only do you lose schedule, but hanging out in airports is not cheap unless your're going eat junk food/McDonalds while you wait. 

Not asking for answers, just food for thought: - what is my freedom number, meaning, how much do I need monthly / annually to leave my job and realize my dream of traveling? 

Has a list of people waiting to rent there and is getting $675 per unit. 2 years ago one of the tenants left the gas stove on with food cooking and it burned down the 3rd unit, due to insurance reasons he had to remove the building pad as well after demo.

My only problem is my children often offer me horrible food choices hoping for an early demise and access to the step up in basis.