Live in new home while it appreciates for 10 years until I get a faculty housing spot, sell private market house, put proceeds (minus downpayment) in bank for retirement (I estimate this will be 1.3 mil before capital gains and real estate fees based on 7% growth in a very desirable Southern California location), and take out new loan for lower cost faculty housing.

Just lean heavily on educating yourself on the laws, notices, etc. early on.

You can even do private lending and get great returns.

I financed this deal through a private lender, which provided the flexibility and speed needed to close quickly.

But historically in my experience it was never done on time and i would get notices from the city about it.

Our sneaky duplex is a cozy, private guest suite tucked right inside our home.

I financed this deal using a combination of cash and a private lender.

If you want even less than that you'd need to use private money, partnerships, creative financing (owner financing, subject to, etc) for the most part

Private money How did you add value to the deal?

You would need to give 60 days notice to vacate in most areas to be safe.