Here are a few recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing and check out BP Podcast.If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select that person below.

Here are a few recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing and check out BP Podcast.If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select that person below.

I combine notes on the best ideas in each book so I have my own personal reference guide.

Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.

These numbers while not perfect came close and was a good guide.

I think a great way to begin using BP is to read the Bigger Pockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Real Estate Investing as Josh and Brandon did a great job with it.And now that you're here we'd love to see you be an active member of the BP community so be sure to set up Keywords Alerts for your local area such as "New York City" or "Las Vegas" if you're looking to find potential opportunities for investing, education in a subject, or other members in your area.

I too live in California but have invested out-of-state since late 2003.Post any other questions you have.Be sure to check out the Ultimate Beginners Guide as well as my 10 Rules of Successful Real Estate Investing.Continues success!

Here are a few recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing and check out BP Podcast.If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select that person below.

The brochure you mention is our 50 State Guide to CRE Customs and Taxes, which is a desk top guide for Real Estate Professionals and Investors. http://www.reiadvise.com/50-state-guide/ If anyone emails me with their mailing address, I will send them a copy for free.

I know it's probably a matter of running the numbers, but I'm wondering if there are any rules of thumb to help guide the process.