rank_label=p...As it relates to RE, the large CA cities have both delinquency and eviction rates near the lowest in the country.  

It's not easy to do, and I want to acknowledge that!

Would it be a good idea to take a deposit to secure the deal until the rule clears?

We do like the UPREIT option as it provides another exit mechanism for selling the DST. 

I am exploring the possibility of purchasing an off market plot of land, building a modular home, and then selling it.

I work with a ton of new investors as a realtor the #1 way to get started is just find a 2-4 unit in decent shape and buy it low down with conventional financing 5-10% then you can live in it for a year and do another next year.

You might be doing something right by not buying.  

Make sure you do your research as well. 

Reading the books and listening to the podcasts makes it seem easy to identify the market.

I will say the abatement if you do it right with a good contractor will be pricy since they have to abide by some different regulations on disposing of it.