Quote from @Scott MacComb: I have had contractors just do a small list on a paper napkin, and some do something on a word document.

Small upgrades or re-leasing to market rents could boost your cash flow and provide additional funds for your San Diego purchase.If you'd like, I can connect you with a lender or help you explore potential properties in your preferred areas to see what’s realistic within your budget.

We are now suing them in TX small claims court as the security deposit was not enough to cover the 2 - 3 months rent after they trashed the house. 

Unlike REITs, direct real estate provides control over management decisions and the ability to leverage financing for higher returns.

Once you graduate and have a steady income, consider house hacking as a beginner-friendly strategy—buying a small multifamily property, living in one unit, and renting out the others to offset your mortgage.

These loans do come from banks directly (Fannie/Freddie loans come from the Federal Government) so each bank that offers these types of mortgages might have slightly different requirements. 

Can i sue the PM for the landlord deposit in the small claim court ?

IMO outside of a few small markets in the southeast the midwest is the only region in the U.S right now where you can purchase property with leverage and still expect a reasonable cash flow. 

This amounts to lost opportunity because if you had purchased RE, at the closing it can start producing return. 5) ADUs detract from the existing structure whether this is privacy, a garage, or just yard space. 6) this is related to number 1, but there are many more buyers looking to purchase homes for their family than there are RE investors looking to purchase small unit count properties.

Start small, refine your process, and use your network to connect with local investors and seasoned professionals for guidance.Good luck!