Being situated between Woodland Hills and Encino, I would assume Tarzana's prices should eventually blend with its two more expensive neighbors.

There are ways to scrub the MLS, you should definitely look at school districts first or wherever in your area there is a blend of employers and there has been growth in population and real estate cash sales.BUTThen you should just be an agentBECAUSE As a wholesaler I find off market deals and I am singularly focused on providing value to those who, for whatever reason, won’t deal with problem properties themselves.

My background is a blend of electrical engineering and business management. 

you may want to blend your portfolio or cash.some depreciable assets ( rentals)syndications  with a VERY good Vetted SponsorPerforming Trust Deeds  Be the bank NPN  funds  let the operator do all the heavy lifting in that space.stock market then see what performs and what you like.. 

I dont think the owner has enough equity to do seller finance but Im thinking we could do a blend of seller finance and lease option.

I am considering making a deal on a house that will be a sort of blend on seller financing and a lease option.

This combination gives me a unique blend of relatable skills and access to some great data/software.

You're answer is blend of both.... banks won't lend if house needs too much work (on a investment loan, there's other loans) and yes cash is easier.

@Anthony Gayden, besides you wearing a Blue collar, you would be a light blue, you have paperwork to do at a desk but you are also out there physically doing work, so your a blend of the two.

Technology advancements such as email, phone calls, skype has enabled communication with a remote CPA to be seamless.