I looks like you are in Cali which is a notoriously tenant friendly state.

Here is my experience, and my regrets: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/922/topics/1133476-hous...At this stage, Zillow and a mortgage calculator are your friends.

I met a contractor through the project that's become a solid 1st call for my next flip and a good friend in the process.

Be friendly :), it's always good to form relationships with the city. 

Mentioning unique perks like 'Game Room,' 'Lake View,' or 'Pet-Friendly' can really draw people in.

Best part is NJ is not what its made out to be in terms of landlord friendly, the state gets portrayed as the entire state being bad when really most wacky laws are in the major cities and they apply to 5 units or more.  2-4 unit multi families fly below radar per say. 

I am pretty jaded now on how AHP being on a well known RE podcast seemed like it was just 2 friends talking but in fact those podcasters were paid to promote.

From what I’ve read on BP, the city of Alexandria seems to be friendly towards STRsI would then also potentially rent out one of the upstairs bedrooms as a MTR or LTR.

Maybe seller holds a 2nd, maybe partner with someone, maybe get some F&F (friends and family) money, maybe offer a higher rate for the 2.5 years the 2nd is outstanding. 

Asking for a friend who was told by his PM (reputable) to ignore it and that most investors don't bother to get their Grandview properties inspected/registered with the city.