What condition is the exterior (siding) in?

It was in rough condition, which limited competition and made it a strong candidate for the BRRRR method.Negotiation: After analyzing comps and repair costs, I negotiated a $420,000 purchase price, which was below the market value for similar properties in the area.

My research was leading me to Stessa.

Full disclosure, I'm not a disaster expert, politician or climate alarmist, but according to those fighting fires on the California coast since the 1960's, Devil Winds are natural occurrences each and every decade but require highly conducive conditions to be as destructive. 

You can learn to do this independently or get a rockstar REALTOR to lead the way.

From what I’ve heard in a piece by Forbes, focusing on unique features can lead to higher long-term rental satisfaction... especially if your tenants want a few animals or more outdoor space.

Prioritize stable cash flow, good location, and manageable property condition, while considering strategies like gradual rent increases, expense reduction, and value-add improvements to enhance returns.

This also leads owners to ASSUME simpler is better when it comes to management contracts.

This being said, I don't believe we'll be able to meet the income requirements to qualify for a conventional.This leads me to believe hard money or private lender is more the only option to get my foot in the door, use my business to make repairs at very good rates, build some equity then refi once the balloon is due. 

You are rushing and that can lead to a first property mistake.