I've heard reliable reviews on this company and was optimistic I would be able to trust them.

That's one reason I hang out on BP - most people in my life can't appreciate the level of work it took to get to this level.

It will behoove you to have a couple that you trust in your backpocket. 

Many investors choose a profit-sharing model for true equity partners, often splitting profits 50/50 or based on the level of their contribution to the deal, but ensure everything is clearly defined in writing to avoid misunderstanding/miscommunication. 

IE: we are sick of rentals we are selling them but we need monthly income so we are going to invest in Deeds of Trust with you !! 

Hey Adriana, I do not know the Bay Area market, but can connect you with one of my trusted resources who knows it like the back of his hand! 

Also, be prepared for paperwork and some level of bureaucracy, but keep in mind that if you’re willing to work through it, the rewards can be substantial.

A duplex or triplex could be a solid first step.Get Legal AdviceTalk to a trusted attorney before agreeing to anything like a trust.

The reason I know this is because my first duplex was a complete gut, I had no clue what I was doing I just believed in the end result and trusted the people I was connected with locally.  

For me, I had no goals but found that two of the deals that I did, the seller looked me up on FB and said that they felt good about me pretty much because they got to know me through videos / posts that I made and I suppose that it built trust with them.