I really dislike quotes like that, the ones that try to sound intelligent but really say nothing.

Shop thriftily, ect..We both come from poor family's and neither of us have a college education BUT were intelligent, hard working, personable people who WILL make a change in our lives but just don't know how to get there...

But I also talk to very intelligent people who know exactly what they do not want to do and that is buy in California.  

There are simply too many unknowns for anyone to answer many of your questions intelligently.  

The PM is by far the most dedicated, hard working and intelligent woman I've met in real estate.

Trying to increase my finical intelligence. 

Now, I assure you, I am very intelligent, dedicated on the subjects of investing, and dedicated to learning and spending time. 

So as much as any of us would encourage them to develop the above skills, they do not want to and sure don't want someone else telling them about their lack of intelligence.  

In the meantime, while you are waiting continue to study and increase your financial intelligence so you will be even more prepared for what you want to do when the time comes.

Don't give up and don't artificially limit your pool just because you ran three people through your magical screener tool and think you need to pick between all of those duds.Also note that many landlords experienced with landscaper tenants find that carpets get trashed with dirt and walls get smudged by grubby hands so something to note for future reference in your considerations for applicants.