Although I have to say I agree about getting the license .. but I understand the wild west of wholesaling so many simply wont do it and these transactions to continue will rely on Someone Like Tom and company like us to facilitate these legally.

This tends to build an inner confidence because you know that you know everything......Do not rely on Social Media and Apps and the 'how can I make it easier' mindset....

This is my personal translation of "You will own nothing, and be happy".

And the market here in Berkeley is very hot, so it makes me a bit confused when comparing this situation to people who talk of REI in lower costs and cooler markets, as I'm not sure how well the numbers translate.

I would be relying on a property manager, so it will be important to build my team.

I wouldn't rely on what zillow says, my experience is that they fluff value estimates. 

A profitable investment relies on good tenant screening.

The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.

Nope not interested.Once you spend a few minutes answering a question and the cant even rely with a thank youone does get jaded..

House-hacking today often has to rely on much greater lifestyle sacrifice than what I personally did 10 years ago, and requires strategies that would make me uncomfortable like rent by the room, or using local laws that allow Short-Term rental only for owner-occupants.