I don't recommend throwing the baby out with the bath water, and definitely make sure you understand the nature of the Mentor you choose.BP is a great resource to meet some amazing people. 

Community water, and electric are at the street.

.- Tenant submitted a work order for low water pressure in 2 bathrooms- Tenant submitted a work order because the garage door doesn't close all the way and left a 2-3 inch gap at the bottom- Owner initially refused to address either work order- Owner demanding the tenants place furniture pads on each piece of furniture- Owner calling multiple times to speak through the work orders, asking when they've been scheduled, calling a couple days later requesting the invoices- Owner calling because they want to access their storage in the basement so they can remove several pieces of furniture being stored- Owner now emailing requesting multiple property inspections throughout the lease cycle- Owner questioning my experience and relative PM knowledge because I'm not following up with her in a timely manner (the following day after the work order)Keep in mind, this is 2 weeks after the tenants had moved in and the tenants are very happy in the home.This is something we see on a regular basis.

Instead, shut off the water to the toilet and place a sign on the door "Art exhibit: Non-functioning bathroom."

Tenant pays all utils except water.  

Water in San Diego is real expensive.  

The owner also needs to save for big ticket items that may need to be replaced every 10 or 20 years such as AC, hot water heater, furnace, roof.  

Many people have a mortgage on a property where the land value is much greater than the home (aka near the water) and insurance is not able to pay off your entire outstanding mortgage.

If they suspend/lose their license, they're dead in the water.

Generally, homes closer to the water are more expensive.