Weigh what matters more to you now—getting into investing or having your own space.

If you focus on creating great spaces, you'll be able to generate strong returns with less worry.You seem to have a solid foundation—keep leaning into that.

Purchase price: $250,000 Cash invested: $88,000 Commercial flex space.

It was a 1-bedroom apartment with a weird living room space that didn't feel functional. 

I will say that when it comes to non-conforming loan limits/jumbo loans, banks, not lenders, often have more competitive rates because they often portfolio the product due to lower risk involved. 

In the context of your post, licensed agents generally can't compensate non-licensed "people" (humans or non-human entities).

Here’s a quick take on each option:Sell and buy in SoCal: This offers simplicity and high appreciation potential, but with all capital tied up, it limits flexibility if the faculty housing waitlist falls through.Keep current home as a rental, downsize in SoCal: This maximizes long-term profit through appreciation of both properties but might feel tight financially and in space.

I think one of the challenges of the BP MTR forums is that while all real estate is local, it seems that what is working in the MTR space is hyperlocal.

Preapproved ADU plans offer extra space or rental potential.

Make sure the lender gives you what is called "Non-Dutch Interest" on the rehab portion, that means you do not pay interest on the rehab funds until you use them.