I am a Mechanical engineer by education but an investor/entrepreneur by choice.  

Stories like this make me think twice investing out of state, but I have no choice if I want to continue to invest in real estate (I'm in China at the moment).

Because most investors starting out are holding down a full time job my choice would be to start with multi units.

And some platforms have more of a reputation for this than others.In my opinion the first thing to start with is at the platform level (or fund level if you're like me and prefer them to the platforms), and look at the uncured default rate.

Also do you prefer college students or families to rent to? 

I tried using a few others and quickly found out why these guys are the preferred option for most of the local investors here. 

If anyone is arguing for or against if its listed or not, its just their preference or a sound bite that they are repeating. 

CA is great for appreciation and there is definitely going to be continued long term growth, etc...but I’d prefer a lower cost and higher yielding investment personally.What are your goals?

If you're in a "not so great/hasn't transitioned yet" neighborhood, section 8 is the right choice. 

Lower operating costs are definitely a consideration I take into account when I’m looking at property, and I think most would agree that a house with $0 electricity bill is preferable to one with a bill.