In this method, the buyer makes regular payments to the seller over a set period and then makes a large final payment (balloon payment) to complete the purchase 

I still have many years before I can retire and withdraw penalty free, but I was investigating and saw I’m able to take out a loan against my savings and could use it for a home purchase.This gives me a bit a cash to play with but wanted to check if others have considered the same?

Tenant screening is more than just reviewing applications and conducting background checks; it’s about ensuring that your property is leased to responsible tenants who will treat it with care and respect.

If you feel the need to verify the income exists, I guess bank statements could be requested in addition, BUT depending on the type of self employment payments aren't always regular.

For someone that's not as conservative, or a different view on the cycle, they might have a different opinion than me on all of this.2) Sponsor quality check: (takes about 45 minutes per deal)I believe that a great sponsor can take an average looking deal and make it great, and that in mediocre sponsor can take a fantastic looking deal and make it bad (especially if there is a severe recession).

I would check out using a NACA loan to buy a multifamily 2-4 units you can live in in LA. 

I think even regular CPAs are not fully aware of this!!

I'm Jenny's partner and I witness it first hand on a very regular basis.

Pioneer, Mr Cool and others go on sale regularly for around $600 for a 12k btu unit. 

I'll definitely check them out.