NYC has been losing residents/jobs to FL and Cali is losing people with jobs, money and skills to less-taxing states - That will continue well after a COVID vaccine.  

This is the heart of SIlicon Valley a large revenue generator for state coffers.2) LA Times - "California population growth slowest since 1900 as residents leave, immigration decelerates".3) Biggest problem - The majority of people leaving have jobs, skills and money, leaving behind those that don't. 

Location, property aesthetics, amenities, lease terms can all dictate a great deal of fluctuation for the price.  

I've jumped around a bit to try to find my "fit" and after much soul searching, realized I have picked up a set of valuable skills (experience with legal documents, customer service, time management, supervising others, hospitality, etc) but not necessarily a dream vocation.

So I took my skills and went out and started my own RE business.

I am currently looking to purchase my first home with my wife next year, and during the initial research phase, I was introduced to the book Long-Distance Real Estate Investing by David Greene (I figured I'd learn some new skills to build wealth during COVID).

I don’t expect that he will do the work, but he can learn some skills/project management that could be beneficial in the future.

If you are in doubt of your skills in identifying potential issues be sure to use an excellent inspector who is familiar with the age of the property.

I am currently saving money for my first investment and while waiting, will continue teaching myself real estate investment skills through the BP podcasts and books.

I'm a school teacher in the middle of my first week of seeing students, so my analytical skills are shot!!