I understand that at my age, focusing on properties with strong equity growth potential (even if cash flow isn't immediate) is a solid strategy.

Quote from @Amit Chugh: @Tim Delaney - I was referring that one of the properties is listed as Section 8 Property, why one would list that in title, does it make any different or benefit for buyer or seller mentioning section 8 in title?

The least important this you mentioned, was the word "cute". 

If it's in the restricted zone (within 31 miles of the coast or 62 miles from an international border, you have the choice between using a bank trust and paying the fees mentioned above or using a Mexican corporation and bearing the costs of establishing and maintaining  the corporation.

I don't remember the exact cost when I did it but I remember thinking it was cheaper than expected.I didn't see a comment mentioning that you should just include utilities in the rent and increase it based off that so I'll be that guy.

That 4 I mentioned was bought 5 years ago.

Not to mention the general PHX market has become expensive and people have already been looking for cost efficient alternatives in the northwest and southeast corners of the valley. 

The capital stack especially in CA is VERY complex and typically involves everything and more that you mentioned.

I feel like in today’s day in age there are so many tools for STR operations and I cannot believe there is no integration for a merchant of sale transaction or some kind of financial app/ software that can take the remitted taxes and pay them to the government automatically.

You profit share with them for the first 10 deals (at the higher levels) because they really are right there with you holding your hand, and as I mentioned, doing three way calls, etc. every step of the way.