I do think that having a contractor give you quotes is MUCH better, but often not completely practical or ideal either.

My late wife and I held joint interests in a piece of real estate in our separate individual self directed 401k accounts.

If CA landlords can share their thoughts and direct experiences, I’d be grateful.

For anyone else, it's far easier if you just send me a direct message.

View report*This link comes directly from our calculators, based on information input by the member who posted.I’m considering purchasing two investment condos to help pay for my children’s college tuition in 13 to 15 years.

Ideal if you're short on cash upfront, but be prepared for higher monthly payments.Conventional Loan: @Chris Seveney and I agree conventional is your better option.  

Buying a building yourself to STR is ideal, but I also know a guy in Houston that has about 200 STR units.  

I sent you a direct message in response.

I'm not too hung up on this, because the margins still appear very attractive (from what the agent speculated ARV). my hesitancy stems from a lack of experience and direct steps/plan of action to take on a property I like. 

I know in my 50 years of being an RE Broker in Multiple states I have had to just go direct its usually frowned upon per ethics but if you think you need to nothing stopping your agent from doing that..