Seeking advice w owner-occupied rei (West LA/East Ventura CTY)

[Souheil Nadri]

Dear SOCAL Bigger Pocket Community,

My wife and I are trying to do an owner-occupied real estate deal. This will be our first house/investment. Areas of interest (approx 40 mins commute to Malibu) = eastern part of Ventura CTY: TO, Camarillo, Simi Valley + West/North West LA: San Fernando Valley, Burbank, Culver City, etc. We are open to SFH w ADU (or ADU potential) or multifamily. Because we will live there, we want to be in a relatively safe area. We are also open to value added projects if ok to move in. The main goal is to put down 5-10% and have mortgage - rent = < $3000. After 5-7 years, either sell or keep as long term rental.

Looking for help in any form (previous experience, agent recommendations, etc). Some questions: How does zoning work (SF, MF) and how it affects the loan, tenant pool, resale value? Which areas/neighborhoods should we look into (SFH+ADU or MFH) and what are the pros and cons of each strategy? What are different financing options including ADU construction?

Looking forward to networking/getting your input.

Thanks!