Two of them haven't had time to give me a seat.

The two WORST performers are down 85% each!  

Here are my two cents...I recommend starting in a market with strong fundamentals, such as steady population growth, an influx of major corporations or large businesses relocating to the area, an affordable cost of living, and high rental demand.

Your taxes are none of the ex wife's business and this would seem to address your concerns.I would also put her on notice that future requests for financial discovery will be two-way and if a discrepancy is seen in the other direction you will seek support from her.

It's not quite as easy as renting out two sides of a duplex, but with the right marketing and management you could rent out the extra unit to supplement the mortgage payment. 

Single mom with two kids. 

I have opened two more LLC's with them since I last posted here.

1) Yiu REALLY need to know what CA will  allow you to do, I don’t know, but the state may say too bad landlord, you lose. 2) Assuming your attorney (Or you if you’re able to decode the laws that relate to your situation and are willing to go to court in front of a judge against a “sick” kid.) think you have the right to collect the rent I’d give them two options. 

Selling would likely trigger capital gains taxes (unless you lived in the property for two out of the last five years or use a 1031 exchange).

Works just as well for a two family worth $1.2.