I now want to start purchasing properties within driving distance of my home in Los Angeles, CABased on research, the Palm Springs adjacent market (Desert Hot Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Coachella, ) look like a good bet based on cost of ownership, Airbnb/VRBO revenue, regulations, and proximity to myself. 

HI Guys,I am a newbie and currently shopping for a property loan for my investment property in Delaware.

A city with a diverse economy might have:1) A big college/university2) Mining/Oil/Natural Resources3) Tech companies moving there4) Big businesses like Fedex, Nike, UPS, Amazon, Samsung, or LG opening up shop there 3) An automobile plantTHAT is the difference between a one horse down and an economically strong and diverse market.Make sure that the market you choose is NOT supported by just 1-2 economic sectors.Pillar #3 - Population Size/GrowthWhen I first started investing, I bought a few houses in Birmingham, Alabama.

The area I'm looking at is North Marysville around Marshall Elementary school because of its location (closer to I5 and grocery and shopping).

If your current agent can not cover the rental property under a personal form you may need to shop it. 

Back in 2010 when I was shopping deals, the banks were very tight with lending.

Not every lender does, thats why a broker will shop it to multiple brokers. 

The property taxes are 1,600/yr .88 acres with an extra shop/garage.

So shop around.

A 4 plex is treated the same as a sfh as far in terms of financing as I know.I'm not as sure how the appraisal process works but assuming it appraises out where you need it to, then I don't think you're going to have any issue getting this plan to work.You may have to shop around a little to find the banks that will refi based on appraisal after 6 mos instead of a year.