The more doors, the more cash flow.That is obviously my very simplified strategy. 

I know I’ve simplified this quite a bit, but it really boils down to these three steps.

One-foot overhang for eaves would be allowed.ADU Size (in sf)LOT SIZE (SF)ADU MAXIMUM SIZE (SF)3,000 - 5,4446005,445 - 9,0007009,001 - 10,00080010,001 - Up900LOT SIZE (SF)ADU MAXIMUM SIZE (SF)Up to 90001,0009,000 and greater1,200Number of Bedrooms and BathroomsTwo bedrooms allowed on lots with an area greater than 9,000 square feet, and only one bathroom.Up to two bedrooms and two bathrooms allowed for all units.Attached ADU Maximum Floor AreaMay not exceed 50% of the existing or proposed primary dwelling living area.May not exceed 50% of the existing or proposed primary dwelling living area or 800 square feet, whichever is greater.Design StandardsVisual compatibility with existing primary dwelling is required.No design standards, except new simplified standards for attached ADU units for historic buildings listed in the Historic Resources Inventory.Parking requirementsAn ADU requires 1 space unless the property qualifies for an exemption under State law—see the parking requirements.If a garage has been converted, the main dwelling parking space must be replaced, as uncovered or in front or side setback areas.

.$34M purchase7% preferred returnCash and Cash - 8.5% over 5 yearsWhen deal sold, the principal is returned and 70% of proceeds basedEquity multiple 1.94"Over 5 years, you're basically doubling investment."15.9% IRRUsing that -- and some if the info seems contradictory to me -- how do you simplify to, "If I invested $100K here, assuming their numbers are true, I could expect to earn $XXXX each year and $XXXX total after 5 years"?

@Mark Costa check out this article for a simplified overview of the benefits.

On the other hand it has simplified my communication style on finances and basic home functioning and made me more tolerant of those who did not grow in the know on those topics.

To over simplify, one I call the California method (buy high and sell higher) and the Texas method (buy for positive cash flow).  

I’m guessing your bud doesn’t really know what all is involved in getting to a closing......hence the ease in which he thinks he can simplify it.

Do you think people would appreciate an LT trying to simplify real estate investing with the VA loan?

You can't simplify all of this by looking at only two of them (rent vs equity) and coming to a conclusion.