Good job.

I apologize up front if this post is disorganized, but I'm sure there are other people who are or have been in my shoes and can offer guidance.About me: mid-30s, high-paying day job, telecommute and somewhat flexible hours, married with kids, own a duplex in Los Angeles county. 

My day job is partner in an insurance and tax accounting firm. 

Have you taken any bids from contractors on similar jobs and compared item cost? 

Then you don't have a way to get anywhere, do any repairs, go to a regular job.

I have a W2 job that pays decent, I could afford the mortgage.

So if you have reliable personal income, cash flow and can lower rent and break even, keep an eye on your property and your tenants, and you keep personal borrowing under control you should be able to do fine with rentals in an area with jobs.

I'd be able to travel a few times over the weekends (still have a full-time job), but definitely looking to build up a small team wherever I end up investing.

There’s a lot of ways to make extra money that don’t require the traditional 9-5 job.

I would only purchase a property for what it is not what it can be because that will be your job to change it.