If you are still adamant on reaching out to a CPA; you can do the following1) take the suggestions posted in this thread2) Attend a local REIA event and network with the professionals in the event and ask who they use for a CPA.3) create a keyword alert for "Los angeles" and "California" and see who frequently post on threads with these keywords. you will notice some of the same posters. network with these individuals and ask who they use for a CPA.4) if you are still unable to connect with a CPA locally - feel free to find a CPA who works with clients remotely.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/Wishing you the best!

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Requirements are straight forward..

I know the math is straightforward, I just can't seem to make it work.

You will get straight forward answers for the areas they can feel comfortable answer your questions.Some items are a matter of interpretation of the law and they will not answer questions related to these areas.

VA financing is pretty straightforward, and a great benefit that you should take advantage of, but many lenders just don't specialize in it. 

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/Wishing you the best!

SCAMMER steals the photos, makes their own listing...typically about 1/2 the price of normal rent and with some key words that turn people on...like pets allowed, no pet deposit, maybe no deposit, just 1st month's rent....something like that to make it attractive. 

You can also ask if they like their CPA and plan to continue using them.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/796/topics/39...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/352...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/500...2) Add the keyword alerts "New York City" and/or "New York".