Actually the IRS does not tell us what we can invest in, only what is disallowed (life insurance contracts and collectibles).Allowable investments for SDIRA investing include the following:Residential real estate, including: apartments, single family homes, and duplexesCommercial real estate Undeveloped or raw landREITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)Real estate notes (mortgages and deeds of trusts)Promissory notes Private limited partnerships, limited liability companies, and C corporationsTax lien certificatesOil and gas investmentsPrivate stock offerings, private placementsJudgments/structured settlementsGold bullion Factoring investments

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

I too live in Marin, and feel it is a solid long term market for apprecaition, and utilizing the power of principle reduction.When it comes to refinancing, figure out what the loan costs will be, then divide that buy the monthly savings with the new loan in order to determine how long you have to maintain that loan to break even. 

After buying the property, I also still have $12k in stocks that I plan to use as a last resort.

One thing most host don't do is stock the kitchen up well. 

I have been cautious about raising rents as I try to maintain goodwill with the tenants.

Knowledge is power:Thorough Inspections: Minimize surprises with detailed inspections and due diligence.Strong Screening: Careful tenant selection reduces vacancy and headaches.Diversification: Spread your investments across different locations and property types to mitigate risk.Financial Planning: Maintain a buffer and choose financing options that fit your long-term goals.

Thoughtful extras, such as welcome baskets or well-stocked kitchens with basic spices, can make a stay memorable.

It's a way for them to maintain control over their material and keep their audience intimate. 

This way, they’ll have a vested interest in maintaining high standards of management.To truly understand property dynamics and support the management team, I recommend spending time on-site.