The barrier is the control of the MLS, and, in spite of assertions that compensations can be negotiated, that control coupled with collusion has created a sort of cartel effect.What would be great is a national disruptor.

There are a couple of things:1.

My boyfriend, @Devon Moore, and I set out on a goal for the year to meet with at least one individual or couple each month who is passionate about their real estate journey.

Sorry this is happening.On the surface there are usually a couple of things to consider:1. 

Cash offer do carry weight as they can close quicker, don't need appraisals etc, but as an agent that works with buyer and sellers, I've seen it many times where a seller will pick a different offer due to some connection to the buyer (ex military, young married couple just starting etc) They want to know its NOT going to an investor specifically. 

I had a deal a couple of years ago where the home looked like it could have been stick built, and the container was just part of the inside.

These would now go for over 1M - 1.1M minimum and at peak a couple years back with lower financing were worth ~1.2 - 1.3M.

There are a couple houses around here that recently sold for 260k.

The higher interest rates you pay today is short term and in the next couple years you will be able to refinance for a lower rate.

IMO your crazy, brand new to the market, with only 1 mill, its LA, NOT a good place to learn,