Some are influencers living in their parents basement with their "command center" of pawn shop bought computers and monitors of which a few are on Porn Hub  24/7 while they shill for Pace and crypto bois.

A lot less cheaper and will command the same rental rate if purchasing and renovating is an option for you.  

New construction tends to command even higher rates.

Excellent neighborhood that commands high rents.

At this point the buildings represent a very different quality of investment, which commands a different cap rate.Residential rents generally go up.

AND when you are ready to move in, take down the wall and make it into your original house, OR BETTER YET, when you are ready to sell, sell it and it will likely command more money than your 5/3.This will allow you to keep the house until to can settle your feeling and make a decision on what you want to do.

If you have a $6000 per month interest only payment and the best case scenario is renting both units for $5000 per month (you only mention renting one unit for $2500, perhaps the other "owner" unit is far nicer and commands more rent?)

If this property has big defects you should command a discounted price.

If no one wanted to live in coastal California the real estate there wouldn't command the price point that it currently does, Im just speaking fundamentally of course. 

There is so much competition in the area and the well-done themed houses generally command a higher ADR.