Any BPers have any first-hand experience with this?  

It is my wife and I’s goal to use RE as a means for achieving financial independence primarily through buy and hold rentals. 

They are mostly knuckle dragging low achievers with no personal goals in this class of tenant regardless.

Whats your target date for achieving your goal) next you'll want to pick a strategy and learn as much as you can about that strategy (this will help to keep you from spinning your wheels) finally pick a few areas that you're interested in and do as much research and deal analysis as you can, eventually you'll find the market that works for you and you'll be on your way to your goal in no time.

What goals are you trying to achieve?

Currently achieving rents 25% over initial projections.

The person you are talking with may be able to help you achieve your goals!

But what I can say is that cash flow is achievable in the Bay Area.

It is amazing to see such a community come together and assist each other in achieving financial independence through real estate investing!

I just do whatever it takes to achieve the outcome I want.