I am a 51 year old about 6 months away from ATP hours, 3 months away from applications, starting to get my ducks in a row. About me:

2nd career guy, I have my own business now that can be pretty much run from the road however it is also for sale. Would like to use the income to off-set FO pay for the first year (or if it sells, will invest the money to help off-set)

Live in Los Angeles, Married, kids out of the house. My immediate family here, extended family in PA/DE. Wifes family here however parents are in the process of moving to ATL (where brother lives). Daughter in college mid-west (NE) and will probably go to grad school there also says "I will not be coming back to CA". I would also like to move from CA but willing to consider almost anywhere that is NOT CA, NY, or other high cost living states. Haven't really decided where just not happy with CA direction (business and house would have to sell for me to move). Realistically, I dont think I could move for 1 year (unless business sells faster) so would either need a LAX dom or an easy commute.

Since I am older, I am guessing my career progression would be something like 121 until 65 then 91/135, I realize due to age and no degree, majors probably not an option (although if age increases, I would consider going back for the degree). I am not afraid of the road and would be more concerned about wife's QOL than mine therefore thinking an eventual move to ATL is probably most likely where we would end up (to be close to her family, unless wife wants to move to be with daughter). I think I should be looking at which airline will get me the most hours and the fastest upgrade, equipment third.

Regionals I think I should consider:
1. Skywest, CRJ- Has LAX options and ability to transfer to a lot of different bases depending on where we end up. Seems to be the one with the most flying time and fastest upgrade time. (is the CRJ really much worse than the EMB-175? wouldnt the CRJ type rating help to make the move to 91/135?)
2. Compass- Has LAX although not much more, would consider a move to PHX so could make that transfer or once I have the hours, find a DEC position where ever I decided to end up. Seems like they are slow for class times etc.
3. Republic- Commuting would be tough however has bases in some areas I wouldnt mind moving to. Also a move to ATL would probably make commuting to their bases easier. People seem to like it.
4. Mesa- No one seems to like them but do they fit the bill?


I think my main goal is the time to hold a line, flying time, and upgrade time. Am I thinking clearly? Any other suggestions or options I should consider?

I appreciate the feedback!