In addition, they are bearing the risk of you backing out of the deal and them being stuck with vacant units not bringing in rent. 4.

I can't offer all of those big wins.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

Both properties have a substantial amount of equity that’s essentially sitting idle.Would it be a good idea to tap into this equity (through a HELOC, cash-out refinance, etc.) to fund future fix-and-flip projects or purchase additional rental properties?

Your best route might be to buy a 2 to 4 unit property that you can live in and rent out the additional apartments.

Offering discounts for weekday or longer stays could also help improve occupancy.

You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of income and employment, and may need to have a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.In terms of buying with an LLC, it can be a good option for some foreign buyers, as it can provide additional liability protection and potentially offer tax benefits.

There are also additional costs of operating and maintaining an LLC, like separate bank accounts, annual report filings, tax filings, etc.2.

In addition due to prop 13, the tax base is a fraction of if it sold today.   

It offers little protection against negligence but good protection for contract disputes.