From using data to identify emerging markets to building tools that automate property analysis or management, your skills could really give you an edge.

The "big" firms like AA may get a lot of hype but they generally can't compete on the next level tax strategies (Family office type strategies) nor customer service as their employee turnover is quite high.  

If they work and the risk level is something you are comfortable with, go for it.

The following is not to express any level of happiness/unhappiness with build or process. 

High level local impacts are rising rents from Santa Barbara to San Diego and high demand for luxury purchases.

The answer to this will come down to comfort level, funds available, and strategy you are looking to implement. 

I think the before vs after pictures really speak primarily to your experience and ability to execute a project so it can help lenders gain comfort with future projects and allow you demonstrate what level of detail you except out of your contractors.

It’s worth looking into now to get ahead of it, but also depends on your comfort level and goals.

(Usually you cannot use prior employer history until you have been at your new job for 6 to 12 months, depending on the underwriter to show that you are maintaining the same level of bonus/overtime/commission income that you had at your prior employer).

.: Quote from @Jay Hinrichs: Quote from @Alleyne Warner:  your use of the English language and your writing skills do not portray a high level employee, more like a janitor or something.Haha, that’s an insult to janitors Jay.