I think this is one of those decisions where you really can't go wrong, and making the best decision with the information you have while also taking into account how it will affect your lifestyle, and how badly you want out of CA is important IMO.

BUT being you're planning on moving into the property eventually, I would definitely take into consideration the lifestyle you prefer. 

In time, you can really cashflow from real estate by:1) Exchanging into higher & higher value properties, so that a x% cash-on-cash return covers your monthly lifestyle2) Paying off real estate, so that most of the rental income goes to fund your lifestyle.

My blog/website is about long distance self management, landlording, investing in class A investments, investing in a transient lifestyle, etc.Look forward to seeing you around!

My blog/website is about long distance self management, landlording, investing in class A investments, investing in a transient lifestyle, etc.Look forward to seeing you around!

I actually did go to the REIA religiously for months and then as business grew, I tapered off to the general meetings only.

They want a sustainable lifestyle that includes using fewer resources, in a home made of natural materials, often off-the-grid.

Do you want an active lifestyle in investing (flipping) or more of a passive one? 

I have no idea how much you make, how much you need, but I imagine you'll find that good deals look less attainable when your passive income now has to support both your lifestyle and portfolio expansion.And I have no idea what your present income is, but perhaps try to scale down from 50 hours to 25 and see how it goes?

That's my two cents but I pretty conservative and would be happy living a modest lifestyle.