I've been saving for a while, educating myself, etc.

I also strongly suggest you invest in education, learn from experts, experienced folks how to find sellers, negotiatem once you're in contract, how to rehab, then how to manage your rentals. 

I started educate myself in real estate, and personal development by listening to podcasts and audio books.

This is a great place for education and networking.

You might be able to use some of that education/experience (reciprocity maybe?

This'll really help with our housing shortage.Anyway, enough educating Texans about California real estate.

@Michael MoralesAnother prep course to consider for your CA broker's exam is from this real estate educator's link:https://www.firsttuesday.us/br...I am in way affiliated with this school.

@Shatavea Wallace First steps: 1) Find a lender - I recommend someone local, ask your real estate agent who they can recommend or start calling around2) Find a real estate agent if you haven't3) Have some cash for the reno (whether it is hard/private money or personal cash); no matter how you structure, you'll need some backup $ (how much depends on how large your project is)4) Read in the forums/education articles here on BP https://www.biggerpockets.com/...

Feel free to DM me if you want more specific advice.Good luck and get educated!

Just talk to everyone you can and don't be afraid to ask questions, but make sure you also invest in your own education so that you're able to have informed discussions.And, please, feel free to reach out anytime if you have any questions or just want to chat!