Is it different like SC? 

But I think it has more to do with how different individuals handle what is technically an invasion of their space and privacy.

This Sponsor has at least 8 properties in some kind of distress all in different geographical areas.

I come from Europe too, and I know it can be overwhelming when you look at the real estate market in a new country and with completely different building technics ( sticks instead of bricks), but is not as bad when you have the right team in place. 

Being mindful of when to sell can mean the difference between stalling progress and moving forward with more strategic investments.

There is a legal difference. 

Also, I'm not sure how you're paying attention to it on the tax side, but the unit that you are living in's profit at sale is calculated differently than the other unit that you're renting out.Once you move out, that unit is officially available for rent so from that point forward, any profit gained at future sale will be calculated starting from that point and will be taxable.

Part of the difference apparently is in them keeping the loan insted of selling it.

Quote from @Sam Walls: Hey Marcus, I work with a lot of investors in the Philly suburbs, and I can tell you that connecting with like-minded people in the early stages of their journey can make a huge difference.

There are pros/cons to the bay area vs out of state and everyone's situation is different to reach their goals within their own timeline.