Would it be better to invest it elsewhere?

I'm looking to break into the RE game and I feel as if this is one of the better ways to do so.

We better start building.

While you might not cashflow on it right away, it can be a better way to grow wealth given the opportunity to leverage a higher amount of the purchase price since you'd be an owner occupant, and Los Angeles is (in my extremely humble opinion) more likely to experience appreciation in the long run than a cheaper market, therefore generating more wealth to continue investing with.

I always go a little cheaper than rentometer so I can get more applicants and choose the better applicant.

He was able to correct them bit we are a bit hesitant and we’re trying to find a better CPA that can be our tax planner/strategist.

Even if you have to travel a couple of hours, you have a much better chance of finding someone.How to approach a mentorOnce you've found a likely candidate, it's time to reach out and ask.

Large homes do better as the bar is higher and competition is less. 

@Dan Camp most real estate agents will offer this, but wouldn't recommend letting them do the prospect screening due to conflict of interest.Probably better to hire a local PMC to handle this.

With the goal of better tenants.