both have 5yr pre pay penalty. 

I will be managing and will be paying a real estate agent friend to show the properties for me.

Most landlords wait until the tenant stops paying rent before learning how to deal with it, and they are always behind the curve.

I had a nice conversation with them and approved their booking for Aug 2025.So, it pays to keep an eye out for a repeat booking that looks fake as they could just not be seeing you responses. 

That is what we thought, but are being told we have to pay SS and medicare on this now even though it is "deferred." 

You have to disclose all of this when you sell, so you will end up paying your plumber or discounting to your buyer.

In addition, you would need enough working capital to pay for insurance (which will be going up a LOT in Los Angeles) and to pay for property taxes.Don't buy this unless you have substantial resources and a cash cushion to keep yourself safe.

If they failed to pay the bill and utilities are shut off, they are responsible for any damages caused.

If your willing to do so, you can live in the casita and then rent out the main home and have your tenant pay the majority/all of the mortgage (depending on what type of deal you find obviously). 

If you have a lot of liquidity and a great paying W2 and can support your rentals, focus on appreciation/equity.