We basically have two options as a for-profit company: A: scale massively with huge overhead (like we were doing at 50 deals a month at times at MartelTurnkey) or B: leverage our experience and success to train others how to be profitable with micro flips and be less vulnerable to market volatility and shifts.

Eventually my partner and my own health insurance cost rose to over $1400 a month which just wasn’t sustainable so I got a job in a group home on third shift.

My understanding is most HOAs don't allow STRs which is why a lot of people have shifted to MTRs.

You may develop local relationships, comprehend neighborhood dynamics, and react swiftly to market shifts by being physically there.

could you shift to a different platform and/or to direct?

Cost segregation studies also have multiple benefits including:Accelerated depreciationTax deferralIncreased cash flowRemember, that cost segregation is not a tax benefit to reduce your lifetime tax burden, but instead shifts when you pay those taxes to help implement more efficient investment/portfolio growth strategies.

My mindset is definitely shifting but not quite there yet. 

Buying under an LLC shifts the type of loans you would be eligible for, and likely rules you out of considering a house hack or using an FHA/VA loan, but opens up different funding options if you have the capital for a larger down payment.

We are going to talk through our strategy some more and possibly shift to a small single family home.

Your situation is unique and presents an exciting opportunity for your retirement planning.Given your aim to maximize your monthly income to supplement your CalSTRS retirement fund, and your desire to continue investing in properties post-retirement, here are a few suggestions:Assess Your Risk Tolerance: Transitioning from California properties to Indiana duplexes involves a shift in market dynamics and possibly different risk profiles.