@Jake GoehringIn my opinion, if you don't already have a source you can go to, (such as an attorney well versed in private lending and a CA mortgage broker who is licensed) to ask about legal, regulatory and compliance issues regarding residential lending in California, you shouldn't be contemplating doing it.

My wife and i had a similar monthly "savings" and we contemplated paying down the mortgage, or investing in rentals.  

So I'd make the case that passive investing needs to be devoid of contemplation or deliberation of how said investment is faring or whether or not it's being tended to.

(I have a wife and 2 kids) I have contemplated paying out of pocket for insurance but it's crazy expensive any suggestions?

Party decides to buy new home and is contemplating selling or renting existing home.

We looked at properties in Hollywood, FL that didn't seem like war zones, but had very high criminal activity according to that site...and they break it down by offense - drugs, rape, assault.

Contemplating switching CPA's.September- After saving for 2 years and losing it multiple times above buy a new to me car. 30 miles in wreck it.

I have contemplated changing markets as well, but I enjoy the hands-on too much for now. 

The only ones you read about in the paper are (a) Landlords that blatantly violate the law, or (b) Landlords physically assaulting or sexually harassing their Tenants.The best protection: know and obey the laws, treat your tenants honestly and fairly, and document everything.

I've contemplated this question many times (believe I've made a few posts about it).