I grew up in the Bay Area and Richmond is probably going to present somewhat of a challenge for you to get quality tenants.

I think it is challenging, but do-able to invest in California for cash flow and buy and hold, but it does take more work. 

So if your market is a bit challenging, get in some of the more welcoming markets - Ohio, Michigan where the entry is not high and its easier to get started. 

THU NGUYEN my personal opinion is, first you have more control how to invest and being engaged at war zone level and second with buy and hold strategy you will build equity and build wealth overtime (long term if you hold your property).

@Michael SchwobThere is no problem with investing at an early age but there are some challenges. 

Challenging a flawed mortgage I have read a few stories about home owners challenging flawed mortgages, and getting 1st position bank notes extinguished. 

If you have no money, no credit, and no experience as an example then a seller doesn't want time wasters.If a buyer has something to work with a seller might consider engaging them to see where it goes.Time is money and we all have so much of it whether you are worth 1 dollar or 10 billion.

I know very little about rehab or construction, so I am worried about taking on a fixer without a knowledgeable partner.My biggest challenge so far is how to accurately determine AVR without experience.

Our challenge now is that we got the check from the pension plan and don't know what path to follow.

I was told by the city because he is challenging the validity of the sheriff's sale it is now a civil matter.