It looks like this particular investor preferred the low level price point and the risks that come along with it even though he was buying from a company who could offer him both types of investments on the complete opposite side of the risk spectrum.

I live in Ocala and have never heard of this company, but that doesn't mean anything since I prefer to buy already built properties and rehab them. 

The only choice is do we go forward in denial to incur a Soviet Style collapse.

I personally do not prefer to hold high cost SFRs as LTR investments.  

Also, which choice is better for you highly depends on what your real estate goals are and the experience level & skillset of the specific agent.Traditional agent and Redfin Agent could essentially be the same thing in many cases.

I would suggest buying without value add only if you were going to keep the property at least 10 years. https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/ca/san-diego/real-estateI think your plan to rent in San Diego is likely the correct choice especially as you get to know the area. 

Here are some general guidelines: Lien Position1st Position LienEquityMinimum Down Payment of 20-25% (a 30% equity to sale price is preferred)Down Payment made in certified funds and not borrowedMaximum Funding of 70% ITV (Investment to Value)SeasoningMinimum of two monthly payments already made12 months or more preferredPayer CreditCredit Score of 650 or higherNo major derogatory trade lines (No 90-180+ days delinquent, foreclosure, repossession, bankruptcy, etc.)No decline in credit since purchase of businessTermsPrefer 60 months or lessMaximum of 72 monthsNo Balloon Payment preferredCash FlowBusiness has positive cash flow1.25 debt service coverage ratio preferred.DocumentationPersonal guarantee from a creditworthy individualStandard documents including Note, Security Agreement, and UCC-1 filing.Tax Returns on the business that substantiate profit and loss statements.OtherPayment history current and verifiablePayer Interview indicating buyer is satisfied with business and comfortable making paymentsMotivation for selling the note is not a result of a deteriorating businessConsideration of high risk businesses or geographic areasIn these situations, sometimes a partial is a better option. 

It’s worth mentioning that while many people prefer Booking.com for its convenience and reliability, this doesn’t mean that other platforms cannot offer the same level of service.

STRs are also not my game and I prefer to stick with what I know. 

With investment properties, most lenders I work with prefer to have an address to work with in order to provide a "soft" quote, which does not include a hit to your credit.