For example, BP has been pretty consistently anti-guru for all the years I've been here, yet people still come in here to post about this or that guru or how they lost all their money.

While I agree that inherently more buyer optionality = higher prices for homes (more demand with same supply will do that). 

Without knowing anything else than what is here, my guess is your obstacles are either zoning or prohibited basement habitation.

Not sure on the $400k, but I can put you in touch with my realtor and others in her office. 

Building strong relationships and ensuring mutual understanding of expectations have helped navigate potential obstacles effectively. 

Additionally, covering unexpected repairs and meeting lender requirements can pose obstacles, especially for newer investors. 

Hi Michael,If you don't have any luck with this in here, you might want to try SCORE.They may be able to guide you on this.https://orangecounty.score.org/Good Luck!

I'm originally from San Francisco and agree with what @Brandon Croucier said about the direction the state is headed in. Here's

From years of borrowing I can also say these are the lenders who will take the time to understand obstacles that may arise on any given project and formulate solutions that keep your projects moving.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions i enjoy helping BP members steer around obstacles.