He specializes in insurance for investors and will get you closer. 

I have some cities closer than a 100 miles where I am seeing several I buy houses guys and guys doin the rto deals on cl so maybe I can find a way to connect with them and work something out so I can learn more.

or the grass cutting guy doesn't want to lose the account if the owner comes back.  

Hello BP,I'm wondering if the amount of PMI is decreased the closer you get to a 20% down payment? 

I thought when I got my license, it was closer to $395 - maybe they're trying to weed out those who aren't truly serious?

Just hoping to get more insight on your situation because I am considering buying in CA too still since it’s closer but maybe higher cash flow out of state would be more worth it.

I replaced windows, carpet, painted both inside and out, replaced two sinks, installed sprinkler system with 1500 sq ft of additional grass, replaced base board and a few other things.

We raised rent after the redo turnovers, and moved our lowest paying legacy tenants up closer to market rates (still below market because they are in un-renovated units), so in total our rent collections are up 21% from the previous landlord’s.For those without the time or inclination to read the above posting, here is a brief history of our ownership.

With $500k to invest, you should be looking to invest in your primary residence in LA first IMHO ... get your feet wet and some experience under your belt locally before venturing to far away lands where the grass seems so much greener.

My $0.02; Cap rates are really a gross measure, it is the 1st level of analysis that you do in your head to figure out if you should turn the page and read more about it.Bethlehem has nice areas (downtown, near moravian etc) and some bad areas.. south side near the casino (well maybe that is not quite "bad" but it is a certain apatite) or as you get closer to Allentown.