Also, make sure the HOA has minimal amenities and fees, has no restrictions on rentals (is landlord friendly), and sound financials before you buy.Finally, whatever you buy, make sure you can afford to hold it through thick and thin (through a combination of rental and personal income) and you get a great deal ... generally, the only ones that lose out on REI in LA are those that can't afford to keep up with the expenses of the property and are forced to sell or get foreclosed on when the market dips ... sooner or later it will dip, the dip won't last, but you don't want to be that guy in the meantime.

I do not have a huge bankroll (quite the contrary, I'm hoping there's a way I can bootstrap the REI channel).I'm curious to hear from those of you in the thick of things, what are the best strategies you'd recommend I explore, given my noob status, minuscule available funds, and our current market situation. 

My rental income is enough to support me financially without having to work another job and although I have found a lot of fulfillment in volunteering and doing things that support others in need, I have this growing desire to get back into the thick of things, and the rush of making some dough.

It looks like standard card stock (like 3x5 cards thickness, yellow color).  

Gosh, I sound ridiculous saying that, but I've been buying MFs and SFs and I have the money and thick skin to go bigger.

The result is a strong, thick, sturdy counter top with a light gray color that's ahead of the trend.

Perhaps if I upgrade to a plus or pro I would not feel too thick skinned on.

It can be grimy sometimes, and at other times you will need to have a thick skin when dealing with renters.

I have committed to these strategy through thick and thin, I have no worries that my business strategy won't work somewhere else.

The only regret I have is being so thick headed, for so long, that is cost my my freedom sooner.