My main goal is to survive through economic downfalls and also have the opportunity to see and visit the ones I love and hold dearly.

It's simply not going to happen as the economics do not work.     

Northeast of Los Angeles.My investment career wasn’t looking so hot.However, rattled as I was, I was an avid fan/reader of Warren Buffett (still am as a matter of fact).I was confident that times of panic were the best times to look for golden opportunities.Ok, I was fairly confident.If I would’ve been REALLY confident, I would have bought up everything I could get my hands on.Instead, I stayed the course and stood by my plan.I kept contributing to my IRA and 401k, and began looking for another property to purchase with the intent of living in it while stationed in the area and renting it out when I moved.Now, looking back, I realize that I made another rookie mistake.When searching for the property, I did not educate myself and become an expert in my new market.Granted, it’s a little more difficult for military members to accomplish this as we only get about 8 – 10 days to find a place to live.However, I could have started the process from Ohio.Anyways, for those that know the area, I found a foreclosure in a great neighborhood west of highway-14 in Lancaster, CA about 40 minutes for base.The previous owners had purchased the property at the peak of the market for ~$450k.It was now being listed at $195k.If I were in their shoes, I think I would have taken the hit too and walked.Well, probably not due to my security clearance, but I digress.

We understand this this a blog community and we are not seeking any legal advice here but if there are legal experts that can offer opinions it will be greatly appreciated.

@Victoria Bonhomme   Not an expert on that market by any means other than I spent a few winters there before the GFC and made a few offers to buy properties..

Your expert opinions are SO appreciated.

Ypr best bet is Rick Harmon probate Calif expert

You can do very well if you are an expert at it. 

I am in need of someone who knows how to rehab properties here in TEXAS. ..I have a contractor BUT I AM  just reaching out to the EXPERTS here on BP...

There are probably plenty of towns in Oregon and Washington that would work for you, both in terms of climate and economics.