If you need financial help, ask under the "Finance, Tax, and Legal" forum.

If you finance a property as in investment, whether conventional or another type of loan, you can’t occupy it legally.

It is far, far more important to focus on knowing the law, obeying the law, and treating your tenants honestly and fairly.An LLC is useful for two things: anonymity and legal protection.

All lots stayed legal but one got a manufactured home shoved on it and sold immediately, before even in place.  

Unfortunately, most landlords wait until a problem appears, then they eventually realize they are behind the 8-ball and try to figure out how to fix the problem.Do yourself a favor: buy "Every Landlord's Legal Guide" by NOLO.

Does your lease state that legal fees and costs paid to pursue eviction will be added into amounts owed by the tenant?

Nothing herein is legal advice.Effective July 1, 2024, California Civil Code section 1950.5 generally prohibits a landlord from collecting more than one month’s rent as security deposit, whether the rental is furnished or not.

You also are welcome to do your own plumbing, taxes, legal work, electrical work, landscaping, etc. 

Security deposit amountYou can find plenty of examples by searching for "tenant estoppel certificate doc" or exchanging "doc" with "pdf" for more options.Here is an example and explanation: Sample EstoppelSome have a lot of legal jargon but this document does not need to be so detailed.

Also, you'll want to have legal documents drafted, specifically a mortgage lien, promissory note and some kind of JV agreement.