Under this method each investor has ownership and voting rights.

And while nothing is foolproof the most consistent method of finding good vendors is relying on OTHER real estate investors that have worked with those vendors. 

What are the best methods to independently verify zoning and land use data to ensure compliance with local regulations?

Caulking a bathtub for a plumber is the easiest job he could charge money for, short of charging to lite a pilot light on a furnace or water heater.  

Easiest project we have ever could do.  

I’m also in the early stages of exploring real estate investment, and it’s been helpful to see how others incorporate different tax strategies and asset protection methods.

Probably going to be a check.Smart contractors are starting to understand that convenience matters to customers and being able to take different methods of payment can help them collect their money.

Depending on how the water is getting in, there may be cheaper methods for sealing the basement walls from inside.Keep shopping until you find someone trustworthy with solutions.I would also consider going after the first contractor because they robbed you.

I'm a local real estate broker, investor, and manager (100+ rentals, mostly Airbnb/STR and multifamily).House hacking is a tried-and-true method and in Sacramento you can produce some meaningful income while enjoying the appreciation and tax benefits of owning real estate.

My method has always been to call every listing that hit 90 days on market in areas that I want to buy.