@Joe HammelEdit* For the record, I’m heavily biased towards pull chain and NOT remote controlled bc the remotes is something that seems to be a headache.

A more general observation on this topic, intended for you and any future readers - find out from the agency that has control over this area exactly what it takes to LOSE grandfathered status.

My North Oakland units, purchased 2015, are all condos in a single complex = no rent control.

You aren't going to have success finding the right agent because you are taking something that is outside of your control (the new settlement) and already trying to figure out how to get the best service for less.

You need to prepare for these operational cost increases that are out of your control.

Patience would have avoided a lot of the current pain.Syndication investments are long-term, illiquid investments completely out of your control.  

Investing in condos still works for a lot of people, but they come with unique pluses and minuses so make sure to add those and HOAs to the list of things you're researching and determine if that's something you'd be willing to do or if you want to wait until you can get something you have more control over.

Can they even be evicted if in rent controlled apartment in non owner occupied?

I wouldn't consider investing until you have zero debt, complete control over your finances, and money saved up for the purchase.

I'm an HVAC contractor and I just had to order a simple $100 control board and it took two weeks to arrive.