A smart seller will have note, deed of trust/mortgage/etc. prepared by a local real estate attorney (yes, he/she may work with/at the title company) and be sure the security instrument is properly recorded in the land records. 

Downtown is a good landing spot for wedding parties, corporate groups, families during the holidays, events, etc.

Building a strong local team is crucial too.

In your case looking to larger assets where you can effeciently cost segregate to gather bonus depreciation would be a smart move.Appreciation - Where in the country is the asset class you like growing or going to be growingAmortization of the loan - What sector or even region if you look locally for funding, is going to offer the most favorable lending so that less goes to interest expense and more to pay down of principle.Have fun with a spread sheet comparing these 4 returns from your investment with the type and location of assets you find attractive. 

Our local real estate agent stated that the forest service is not obligated to extend the lease which would require moving the cabin.

I think you need to sign up on Meet Up and RSVP: Tuesday, Nov. 12 Walnut Creek  at Rotator Taproom 6pm (short notice - it's tomorrow)Thursday, Nov. 21 Oakland at Two Pitchers Brewing Company (hosted by Tyler Jahnke of Kenji Capital)Saturday, Nov. 23 Tilden Nature Area, Berkeley hike at 10am (hosted by Tyler Jahnke of Kenji Capital)Thursday Nov. 14 San Francisco - Happy Hour/Networking at Alchemist Bar and LoungeTuesday, Nov 19   San Francisco - 100% Funding for your Deal (Sports Basement at Stonestown Galleria mall)https://www.meetup.com/bayarearei/events/304151177

I chose Chase because they had a lower rate than the local lender I talked to in Alaska but now I can see that was a big mistake.

One of the most important skills you didn't mention is networking, which you are obviously doing well at too.I'd recommend connecting 1:1 (zoom, coffee. lunch, etc.) with a couple from the BP Chicago community or better yet check out some of the local meetups: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...Make friends with the meetup hosts...they will often know whos who and can help you make the right connections.Regarding your license, I think it's a great idea if you have the time and are going at it with the right intentions. 

Look into factors like vacancy rates, local job growth, and tenant demand to pinpoint promising markets.Once you find a property, work on running the numbers carefully—factor in purchase price, rehab costs (if applicable), property management fees, and reserves.

I’ve been working with my local credit union for the past few years, so I’ll head there.