I move frequently, so I buy a home every time I move and rent it when I leave.  

It's better than Compton, and I think it is improving, but lots of section 8, lots of late payment renters, lots of people on "disability" and you frequently smell the odor of very strong marijuana in the air.I bought here because It was affordable (for CA), I don't feel unsafe in the area, and I really think the area will improve because it is in a very advantageous location geographically.It isn't hard at all to get renters, but their quality is generally low (credit issues, potential section 8). 

No exceptions.Here is an excellent link that answers frequently asked questions (from a landlord perspective) about the Section 8 program:http://www.gosection8.com/ll/landlord_guide.aspx

@Flavio Zanetti I frequently get them sent to me, but we have a history of no BS and performing a quick closing.

@Brandon Holtzinger This is a good question and one we hear frequently here at BP and with clients contacting our firm regarding self directed IRA & 401k plans.An employer 401(k) has its limitations, and most of us who invest in real estate know we can do better than what wall street investments provide.However, Chris Soignier hit the nail on the head.  

Anish ToliaWhat I have been told by those that have worked these asset class's for years and my own experience over about 20 years lending on the asset class,, is that most of these folks will move 30 to 40 times in their life and generally will live in the same town and many times within a 5 mile sq.. the reason they move frequently and one may not understand is that its not a huge deal for them.

Most importantly, start attending your local REI clubs or meetups- be consistent and go frequently, no one want to work with a fly by night investor.

How has the unit been for your family - are there any problems  to consider that would require frequent visits? 

HI Victoria,You can look up county records or go talk to title agents to provide a list of the most frequent buyers of properties whether live persons or corporations/entities and you can mail them, call them, etc when you have deals that hit their criteria.You can also go on listsource.com to find title searches, non owners, etc etc for your mailing lists to tie deals to the most frequent buyers in your given area to create a profit spread if you're trying to wholesale deals.REIA's are great too but thats a slow way to do it one relationship and connection at a time.

I'm actually up near GR fairly frequently, as the majority of my large extended family lives in GR/Zeeland/Holland.From what I understand, Grand Haven is a great place for investment if you can create a good funnel/pipeline.