Unclear if the lien has expired, and if surplus funds would go to the COA According to the COA State laws i found this:Thelien is not effective 1 year after the claim of lien was recordedunless, within that time, an action to enforce the lien is commenced.The 1-year period is automatically extended for any length of timeduring which the association is prevented from filing a foreclosureaction by an automatic stay resulting from a bankruptcy petitionfiled by the parcel owner or anyother person claiming an interest in the parcel.

But the mythos around the "good deal" prevents so many first-time investors from buying at all because they're scared of looking dumb. 

1000%That said, having a CPA should never be the thing that prevents you from doing your first deal.

Japan also does not have laws preventing foreigners from purchasing property in their country. 

A subject to deal is to prevent the property to be in foreclosure not to allow the seller to foreclose to you.Use other people's money and not your own.

That cannot be prevented. 

Arizona has a statewide law that prevents cities from not allowing STRs and restricts local municipalities from over regulating STRs....CA does not.It's true that SB1168 now allows cities to require licenses and guest checks, but at least they cannot deny them completely.Just my .02 

Quote from @Neetu Patil: For California, I highly recommend you join the California Apartment Association (CAA) where you can get forms, training, laws, legal help, etc.You are in the most regulated, litigious corner of the world where tenants can literally stop paying rent for years and prevent you from even inspecting the property.

With the new 5% down program they are also hesitant to have such a large upfront cost which prevents them from buying a second property next year. 

You may still take important efforts to expand your expertise and knowledge in the real estate market, even when your age may prevent you from engaging in some activities.