Know your numbers religiously.

But this further affirms my belief that it's best to find deals now that work in the current interest-rate market.

I’m of the belief I can network, pour myself into education and learn by doing over time.

Contrary to popular belief, this is actually an advanced strategy for people with lots of experience and resources, it's a really tough place to start.

It could provide the belief that an unpermitted unit built next month will get protected.  

For example, when most of my development clients started building their portfolios, they picked up properties in areas where at least 1 of 3 things was almost always present: 1) They currently or have previously lived in the area, 2) they have family or friends that attend religious services in the area, or 3) they regularly visit family or friends that live in the area.

Try other places, and see if your belief of what matters most to Airbnb ranking matches the reality. 

I had false beliefs that it takes money to make money my whole life.

There seems to be a belief throughout this thread that its alright for a city employee to come onto your property and simply lie about item after item and then send a written agreement in direct contrast expecting you to sign and return it.

It is a well established belief in the financial industry that there is an inherent conflict of interest when financial advisors are compensated on sales commission.