I just want to explain my circumstances and see how people with experience and knowledge in real estate would move forward if they were in my shoes.

______Make it make sense.As someone who grew up in California, this tells me two things:1) you don’t know what you are talking about and are very comfortable with your ignorance;2) you won’t even take two minutes to find facts.If the hydrant system relies on electric pumps and in some areas there’s no power, then there is no water.

I hadn’t thought about the risk of expanding my portfolio by having multiple properties over leveraged, although that seems to be a growth strategy that many use,  I’m not sure it’s one I’m comfortable with.  

Pricing has changed but J Scott's one of the smartest guys around and is one of the books I always feel comfortable recommending.

I am most comfortable with long-term rentals, but I would like to try a flip or two to build my capital.

When you buy a property with the intention to Airbnb Househack, you can find a better layout to make it more separate / private but start with what you have, Get temporarily uncomfortable so that you have a comfortable future.

In case you haven’t read the previous responses or haven’t walked a mile in a landlord’s shoes. 90%+ of your problems are caused by your local/state government that you seem to be giving a free pass.

Whether it's gathering around the tree, sharing laughter over a meal, or watching the magic in your loved ones’ eyes, there’s nothing like the comfort of being home for the holidays.Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

And try to master those taking as much time as you need to be comfortable with it.

What is your comfort level?