1) Research Zoning of similar property2) Do search with same zoning criteria with propertyradar or have title company give you a list.3) Possibly filter by satellite photos to eliminate undesirable topography.

Watch for the company names or the spokesperson’s names and search those names online to find out more about the firm.Crowdfunding.

These companies will end up holding on to buildings for longer than they planned, keeping inventory low. 

There's little to no benefit to the owner and the person running the arbitrage is missing a very obvious, much simpler business opportunity- just start an STR management company and operate as such.

And being in California, you really should be using licensed companies for everything.

We are considering becoming a private lender with them and I am doing some background research on him and his companies and wondering if anyone has done any deals with them.

A professional trustee such as Exeter Trust Company is the way to go if you want it done right, imo. 

If you don't plan on paying cash and have to leverage with an owner-occupied loan product then you should set up your LLC as a property management company because you will not be able to borrow in the name of the LLC.  

As mentioned have an attorney or title company draft the note and mortgage.

Our fund includes a portfolio of over 15 companies that form the foundation behind the Notes.