By taking a strategic approach, you'll be well-positioned for a successful investment.

I know certain parts of the mountains in NC are really good as well!

Gene can you offer some insight as well? 

@Zachary EngenRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder, etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Otherwise you run the risk of keeping yourself busy going nowhere.BTW, I'm in California as well and invest exclusively in Detroit.

Lot's of moving pieces and you pulled it together well @Michael Doherty!!!

The overall building condition is not terrible having been local offices of a well known national charity up until recently.   

@Ron Angel I haven’t yet, but still considering it for my IRA as well

So they need to be real estate focused or at least well educated in the "game" our government has setup for professional real estate investors.

Saw a bunch of lots cheap one time in a nice subdivision near San Antonio, but when I started calling around ends up the water supply cannot add meters any more, not enough water in their well.