.: Any idea how far south the potential for Santa Ana or similar winds goes?  

I'd focus on deciding what you want to do (flip-high risk, but potentially high return...or large loss; short term rental-more work, but higher return than long term rental; long term rental-less work than the other two, but lower return).Once you've decided which you want to do, then focus on getting the best house to meet your goal. 

I’d look into the cost of a 500 sq. ft. garage and compare it to the potential boost in sale price.

Big potential downside- both a selling and buying agent are involved here and I believe they're expecting their 3% each. 

The IRS has challenged simultaneous "drop and swaps," so allowing some time between these steps is advisable.You hit this right on the head with your answer with TIC.You could also potentially do a Exchange Post Distribution (Swap and Drop).

When scouting for properties, explore areas on the west side as well as some parts of the east for potential opportunities.

In over 15 years of lending our money privately, here are the most common questions we are asked by potential borrowers.

We’ve started talking about the potential for collaboration, particularly to reduce construction costs by building simultaneously.

In December 2024, 67.9% of homes sold below the asking price, indicating potential opportunities for buyers to negotiate.

Potential cash flow How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?