If there is significant damage typically the insurance company does not cut a check until after the repairs are done - so in most instances if the house had $50k in damage the insurance company does not cut them a check without confirming the repairs were done.

For instance, you only need to be pursing self-employment activity to open a solo 41k plan, part-time self-employment activity is the minimum requirement, and you are not required to turn a profit every year but need to be performing material services.

For instance, why waste time learning about commercial property when you want to buy a three family to start off with.

The Solo option allows you to be tax deferrable and in most instances you can with manage it yourself with checkbook writing or through some companies like Fidelity, they require a TPA/Custodian to help manage the documents for REI & things.

Win-win.In this instance, we are still deciding how much to compensate this couple.

For instance, my best friend @Sebastian Kressley and I are both "newbies".

For instance, you can pay yourself from the CPA and contribute towards 401K and Roth and minimize tax liability.3) Read "Rich Dad Poor Dad", owning a business is the best way to minimize your tax liabilities.  

For instance, if you want to buy-and-hold in San Diego, then yes wait until a crash when you can buy cheaper (if a crash comes anytime soon).

For instance it is zoned to allow a duplex but I couldn't see anyway to convert it over given the structural constraints.Thanks!

I find in these instances it is best to start making calls to local companies, explain that what you are doing and ask them what they think on a "budget" number.