Get to know the HOA and the status of the physical structure.

This is why cross-shopping and returns to physical brick and mortar stores for a retailer is working so well.

I am doing this deal with my father he likes doing things old school so it must be a physical bank.

I also buy what I believe in, which are physical assets and things that solve issues.

@Rupert GrantGenerally if you're eligible for a Solo 401k, it makes sense compared to a self-directed IRA for many reasons: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.You can borrow up to $50k from the plan; IRAs do not allow participant loansThere is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.The penalties for prohibited transactions are less severe, though it's best not to utilize this benefit :)The one exception I can think of is if your primary goal is to self-directed Roth IRA funds.

Your county building dept will have physical requirements for a separate dwelling unit (such as thermostatic control, accessibility to the breaker box, basement window egress and fire separation.

Though there is a $19k discrepancy, I feel like the HOA has admitted they are responsible for this cost and their insurance adjuster has contacted me to try and help me, since the physical unit was damaged.In the meantime, the City of Santa Monica is forcing me to relocate my tenant, as my unit is inhabitable.

This ended up being a LOT more work for us than we were physically ready for!

If it is disability based on a disability that will end  (e.g. not ruled permanent) their income could end completely, yet they may have not job or income in the planning.Also ask about visiting grandkids, long term grandkids they have custody of. 

It may also be wise to have boots on the ground in either location, so you have someone to stay in touch with that is physically nearer to the actual property.