If your primary has a net $1M appreciation you’ll only pay $100k cap gains tax - that’s a lower alternative than what you propose.

What is the best alternative flooring that you would recommend? 

I understand the challenges and competition in this field and am willing to put in the time and effort to learn and grow.If you have any advice on how someone in my position could gain practical experience or alternative ways to get started in real estate without significant initial capital, I’d be eager to hear your thoughts.Thank you for your time! 

Alternatively, partnering with a reliable GC can help you scale without adding extra responsibilities.

They are going to be the cheaper alternative for SFR, so in theory you should get some decent appreciation gain and good tenant pool.3.

Alternatively have parent LLC that is registered in CA, but now you expose each LLC to the other.

Relationship-Based LendingBanks: Normal transactions are always cold-blooded and policy-oriented.Private Money Lenders: Most often work with borrowers to create solutions and value relationships over strict rules.The Bottom LineThe power of private money lending, I think, is a pretty effective alternative for borrowers who need speed, flexibility, and customized solutions—especially in industries like real estate investing.

Back in 2021 when the market was on fire, sellers would be wary of financed offers because there were so many alternatives.

Finally, I might be novice to alternative investments but to your point, I believe Norada just ran into an economics wall and lost its ability to meet obligations.

Their promise to package your properties into a commercial loan after reaching 5 properties could free up your DTI and provide a line of credit for scaling.Consider delaying aggressive HELOC repayment to preserve cash for new purchases, and explore portfolio loans or DSCR loans as alternatives.