Quick search "MLS Only Broker California" gives you a couple of options.

I’m going to talk to them today about the complaints that I am getting, but if this pursues, what exactly are my options in this situation? 

Once the city gives direction, then start to look at available options and penciling out the numbers to see what makes the most sense.  

Off-market deals are key if you go this route, so networking is huge.Out-of-state investing is another option people love, especially in markets like PA (Philly, Scranton) or even down south where prices are lower, and the landlord-tenant laws are more forgiving.

Real estate is not the end all be all panacea for building wealth, there are a lot of other options many of which will give you way fewer headaches than real estate will!

But I would remain open to long-term rental as an option as this seems like a more stable option in terms of income, again this may be my inexperience talking.However, I have always  been somewhat risk averse and investing in real estate is always a big venture, in my opinion/experience, in terms of capital.

., (3) gives you viable options and explains the pros and cons of each option and (4) you enjoy interacting with - this should be a relationship, not a transaction.Once you find a few lenders like this (and you should have relationships with more than one), then you can start comparing rates and fees.

Are you looking for "value add" options or turn-key?

I wasn't aware it was an option.

An option to better understand and see the model without having to spend all the time is turnkey interesting.