The bank will sometimes take the excess funds (difference between redemption amount and winning bid) as a immediate cash benefit on their books and write off the loan.  

I have the nolo press book, "California Landlord's Law Book: Rights and Responsibilities " but it doesn't address this specific  scenario.  

I've also written reviews that have been accurate, truthful and harsh of other guests, because I want future guests to read it and book somewhere else, if they think that's wrong. 

There are new laws affecting California transactions in 2024, some of which are very relevant to investors and house flippers.According to the California Association of Realtors, starting July 1, 2024 most 1-4 unit properties that are resold within 18 months (aka flips) must disclose:- repairs, renovations, room additions and structural modifications that were performed by a contractor with whom the seller entered into a contract- the name and any contact info for the contractor for any work over $500- any permits obtainedSo you still can be an HGTV star, just make sure you do it by the book. :)Have any of you flipping in the Los Angeles area been affected by these new disclosures?

I would recommend you read Brian Burke's excellent book, The Hands-Off Investor. 

I estimated a conservative 75% occupancy on my current house hack but stay nearly fulled booked out.

It's up on Airbnb now, booked solid and far exceeding my pro forma, although it seems COVID is creating an artificial short term rental market spike. 

I don’t want to just start booking flights to different cities hoping I figure it out when I get there.

I'm reading some books but I'd like to hear from some people with hands on experience. 

Read some real estate books, copy/paste, and build your own.