As far as any specific requirement on California I would need to do some research for that.  

You CAN limit that agreement to a specific property; but, as others have stated, agents are looking for a certain amount of loyalty from their clients.If an agent gets vibes from a prospective client that indicates that they want to cheapskate and not pay a professional for their service, they are not likely to waste their time with them.

Can you ask a more specific question?

All programs have LLPAs but that's more so any bank's individual guidelines and overlays to specific product pricing.

The short sale real estate agent should be able to advise you on all of the loss mitigation options and laws specific to your state and help you with each option prior to listing for sale as a short sale and trying to liquidate the property.

Also, networking with local real estate agents and attending meetups in those areas can help you find off-market deals that might not be listed online.Have you considered specific states or cities for your investment?

I didn't want to list this under Scenario 1 as it's redundant and whether or not having more control over your down payment is a pro/con is pretty case-specific.3. ???

Was it a specific moment or just a long-term goal?

Insurance is a lot trickier and somewhat state specific.  

Unless the $1mm is 100% of the investment possibly.No one can give you a good answer without more details.