Purchase all heavy equipment needed for an automotive service business such as lifts, cranes, etc.

I will tell you that many people who invested in Class B or C apartments during that time got a variable rate loans which was based on SOFR ( secured overnight financing rate) + set number.  

It's okay if you're not going to become famous overnight.

LTV will also have a heavy impact on your rate.

Its hard to pick an area as all areas have different pros and cons, for example some are heavy cashflow positive but lack appreciation.

The town treats it as a commercial lodging property so it's exempt from heavy-handed local STR restrictions.The sellers have been open for biz only part time in their retirement.  

Given the heavy front load of interest, the equity gained from mortgage paydown over five years may go unnoticed due to minimal going toward the principal.

I was looking for a property hot and heavy last fall, but I decided to wait 6 months and concentrate on studying the market, strategies, and overall learning more.

It does not happen overnight and having a track record is especially helpful in scaling this.

There are very few true oceanfront properties in Pismo, and only a small area with flood risk  if during a heavy storm, so I don't think insurance will be a concern.