The reaction and legislation (and their attempt to force people to do things not based on any science or even a rational explanation) enacted on its behalf are 5 times worse.If you are under the age of 60 and healthy, you're chance of dying from Covid-19 if you catch it, is exactly 0.002% (Infection fatality rate).

TLDR: How to monetize a paid off home in HCLA to enable a move to an area with uncertain job prospects?

I That sums up every experience I have had with them and why states are finally putting legislation in place to crack down on this crap.

While some of this may be threatened by proposed legislation at the moment, especially for IRAs, self-directed investors have generally had the ability to invest into any asset class except collectibles. 

You need to know your strategy.I’m a little concerned about you committing to a mortgage if your job is unstable, thus you must make sure your purchase will pay for itself, ie cash-flow.Advice:Read the book by Josh Dorkin and Brandon Turner on beginning in RE to get crystal clear on what strategy you want to pursue if you are uncertain.

This city is tough to leave behind.I'm a big fan of house-hacking at least your first 3 rental properties, ideally utilizing friendly ADU/DADU legislation if you're in Seattle or Tacoma proper.