You can find SF properties that already have in law suites, garage units, etc, and now legally rent those, so it should increase the appraised value significantly.

CA is an expensive market and regarding tenant laws in my eyes more complicated/difficult as a rookie landlord.

Their price structure is probably different but I would use any free consultation available with all law firms that are specialized in asset protection before deciding what structure to use.Also this firm and one it’s lawyer (Clint Coons) have great YouTube channels that will give you a plenty of free information to educate yourself about some of the structure that you may consider.

There is no law against getting a second lien either fixed or as a HELOC in Texas (as many believe), as we do them every day.

Understanding that you're in New York and the laws are leaned to be tenant friendly, I would still say this is the best way to go about it as a new investor.

Quote from @John Malone: What's all the Hype with the new law?

Start by researching affordable states with strong rental markets and landlord-friendly laws.

I would read up on "Squatters Rights" laws and how long a typical eviction takes to execute.

These are you law abiding, working, fair % families probably plenty with US born kids. 

Any business could do this with their services and the savings would certainly justify the additional effort.But if you take advantage of the new law, wouldn't the renter do the same?