Hello everyone here a BP,My name is J I'm a first time buyer looking at getting into buy and hold real estate and maybe there occasional flip thrown in for fun.

My goal is to target single family rental property through auctions with the occasional quick sale/flip.

@Karen Lynn - I am going to echo what @Lane K. said and add that while you may be able to find the occasional cash-flow property, it is not possible to consistently add to your portfolio here.

occasionally the greater fool theory would take hold and someone would buy it at tax sale and an overage was created..

You might also think about looking south and east of LA (Hawthorne, South LA, Cypress, Pomona), and keep your eyes peeled for the occasional deal that pops up in LA.

I absolutely love to read and I am on my 15th book since December pertaining to Real estate investing and business (along with an occasional classic novel, Lol).

I think biggerpockets may move files occasionally and I posted this a while back.

I occasionally negotiate an NNN where landlord has an in house leasing agent handling negotiations, and my client (tenant) typically comes away with a much more favorable lease in that situation. 

And keep your handyman on speed dial because there will be plenty of occasional electrical and plumbing and HVAC and hot tub issues, many of which will be minor but will still require your handyman to take a look.

There are people who are finding off market deals, and I occasionally find them as well, but it takes quite a bit a hustle to be a successful investor in NWA right now.What kind of properties are you looking for?