From there, we'd look into repeating the process with other multi-family or single-family units.A bit about us: I work in corporate marketing, and my husband works in corporate accounting.

What’s the best to build connections in other states where you want to build out your portfolio?  

Any other ideas on how I can go about this?

Unfortunately, the vast of them have houses and other buildings or improvements on them so I can't compare the public records. 

Investment Info:Single-family residence other investment.

LA didn't have as much of an upswing in home values over the last ten years compared to the other areas but I also don't want to buy at the top of the market (which is San Diego right now, although may be doubtful it decreases - some places up 110%).

Then, for some of the other units, I would say, based on your message, it is safe to say that they would need rehab to get full market rent.

In other words, I am biased towards the Cleveland area.

But, for instance, someone who has lost their job, probates, someone who has been transferred, needs an immediate sale, it's been a long time on the MLS but hasn't sold, plus properties not up to MLS standards so they won’t list well on the MLS, and other of "life's occurrences" are all reasons some people sell on subject to.

Given your situation, I think the best thing to do is 1) work on improving your credit and 2) look to house hack, preferably a duplex or fourplex where you live one unit and rent out the others.