I tend to ask the same questions multiple times over a period of time to see if I get consistent answers.

Now I question if I will be able to obtain fire insurance.  

There are quite a number of things that can make utilizing an FHA loan more difficult such as more barriers during appraisal, appearance of low qualification/little cash, typically longer closing period, likely higher interest rate, and PMI cannot be dropped without a refinance if 3.5% down.That said, just chain 5% down conventional loans, and make sure your duplexes pay for themselves.  

.: Is it legal, per the IRS, to rent my primary home back to myself? 

Glad to have you on the forum, Mo! 

Who would like to schedule a meet and greet? 

Hi Gabriel, glad to connect.  

Quote from @Braeden Warg: The right way to do it is to contact the city and ask them.

I have heard that CA is very competitive and very difficult to find deals in.

Quote from @Robin Cloud: It's hard to make a decision based on this.