If you are uncomfortable with the options you have I would wait for better options.

It's probably going to be very uncomfortable, but if it were easy, everyone would be doing it. 

Most are routine purchase and rehab projects with enough profit to support the loan amount at 100% LTC, e.g. 100k purchase, 20k rehab, 160k ARV, per lender underwriting standards.  

They are so focused on upselling youYou know the routine — you’re invited to a free seminar to learn about a new method of real estate investing, and the presenter or guru teases you with tidbits but offers nothing substantial.

We pay $110 per month for routine maintenance. 

For example:General-Filters (furnace, air conditioning, oven exhaust, refrigerator, and water)-Stove burner when the “eye” needs simple replacement-Batteries and remotes that service the premises-Fan and light pull strings-Smoke and carbon alarms testing and batteries-Ensuring appliances are properly plugged in, hooked up, and used-Removing dirt, debris, and lint in and from connection pipes (e.g. clothes dryer)-Tighten loose screws on all home functions (e.g. doors, hinges, handles, socket -Balancing off-balance appliances-Cable, internet, and phone jacks-Fire extinguishers-Systems operation (e.g. security, irrigation, HVAC)HVAC-Monthly A/C filter and drain line maintenance Electrical-Reset “tripped” GFI breakers-Light bulbs (throughout and at the end of the tenancy)-Blown fuses-Reset breakers in the outside and inside breaker boxes-Socket and plug outlet coversPlumbing-Unclog drains or toilets-Caulking around tubs and showers as needed-Gas pilot lighting-Leaky faucets and shower heads-Toilet flappers, handles, seats and seat lids, tank lid, and flush kit-Sink and tub stoppers-If septic tank present, use RID-X as directed on consumer box-Proper cleaning of garbage disposal-Loose faucets and sprayer heads and hoses-Faucet filters (i.e. aerator)-Open exterior plumbing clean out when necessary (e.g. sewage backup)Exterior-Routine lawn (and pool) maintenance-Adjusting sprinkler heads as necessary-On the last month of tenancy, tenant must perform required lawn maintenance no sooner than 2 days prior to vacate dateThere’s a lot to consider as a landlord.

If you, (or anyone) would ever want me to model out a 1,3,5 year scenario with multiple options, that's a routine part of our planning process.

They claim to have done routine inspections, but I was never informed of this water intrusion issue.

If you have a loan, you may wish to look into due-on-transfer clauses, as well as whether turning it into a rental requires you to refinance to a non-owner-occupied loan/rate.If you're going the umbrella insurance route, perhaps see if it will cover you for several things including just the routine slip and fall (like mold or earthquake).

My goals with REI is to generate as much cashflow and appreciation as possible, so I can get out of the 9-5 routine, build wealth for my future, and have as much time for myself as possible.Is Southern California a tough market for beginners?