(I think in the current market getting 15% would be pretty good to be honest). 

I don't think anyone goes to CA to invest, but a lot of residents invest local to keep the home-field advantage which is a valid point..

When I return to the country after my Au Pair contract ends, I hope to live in the property as my primary residence and house-hack as well.I understand that investing remotely makes things more challenging, but I am also ready to be uncomfortable and challenge myself in this journey as I know it is 100% possible.

I don't have an interest in any markets other than where I reside. 

@Bobby Short Depending on the equity you have on your primary residence you might be able to find a lender to finance the property in CR with your primary residence as collateral.

I just completed an exchange of a single family residence in Scottsdale to a single family residence in Durango, Colorado. 

@Leeling ChewAbsolutely, you should background check every adult (18 or older) who will reside in the property.

Or you can sell it, split the equity, and go separate ways.I'm not a fan of borrowing from family/friends unless all parties are honest and everything is documented in a written contract.

I am days/weeks away from trying it at my personal residence.  3500 sqft but only two people using it, so not sure how good of a test it will be. 

Investment Info:Single-family residence fix & flip investment.