I have another property from a family friend that is being sold  for 150k, and the estimated value is 340k. 21 acre road front property w 3/2 bath.

If you plan on living in the property FHA could be a good route to go.

I get nervous about it but then have to let my rational brain work and say, I own an out-of-state property and I own another property in LA.

@Jordan BrownSince Orange County and Santa Barbara have high housing costs, using an FHA loan for a house hack could be a smart move, allowing you to put less money down while securing a property.

Having separate accounts for different properties isn't super scalable. 

I would be very suspicious, especially with it coming through Booking.com on a new property with a discount.

@Thelma BalCost segregation can be a great way to accelerate depreciation and reduce taxable income, but it’s most beneficial for properties over $500K or for investors with significant income to offset.

Are you thinking about managing versus a property manager or are you also thinking of selling as well?

Creative strategies like lease options allow investors to control properties without owning them upfront.

The properties are trashed, and not worth much.