For fix and flips I want to stay away from total rehabs and focus on properties that need minor work such as kitchen, bathroom, paint, outdoor improvements, etc. 

Be hands on and work with your guests every day.

I totally get where you're coming from—pools are such a great amenity, but they do come with some added responsibility!

I already have a hand shake deal on the next property, another duplex, that I will buy come summer time.  

On the other hand, I’m hesitant to simply pay down more of a property, as we don’t need the immediate cash flow.Fortunately, both my wife’s job and mine are recession-proof, which allows us to be a bit more aggressive with our investments.I’d really appreciate advice from investors who have experience with frequent moves or military service.

We bought it in cash with 9 investors for a total of 970k contributed.  

I was in a leased building, counting on a hand-shake deal to buy the property in the future.

Baselane, on the other hand, provides everything you need at a reasonable cost and is tailored for smaller landlords like us.

Landlord-tenant regulations are a bit complex in California and getting hands on is the best way to learn before expanding into larger investments. 

Your accountant should be able to factor that into your total cost.