Thank you all for the fantastic advice. 

Covering yourself in the contract is a fantastic idea.

House hacking is a fantastic idea at your age!

In the cashflow market, you'll earn a fantastic 15% cash-on-cash return but no appreciation.

Cashflow is fantastic in general, but if you don't need it right now (ie, you have income from a job or career), you'll do much better in the long run with sweet, sweet LA appreciation.And Rudy -- I got my eye on El Monte!

Its a fantastic book about the basics of real estate and why its a powerful wealth building tool.

Have conversations with local Realtors, investors, and lenders and get an idea what is happening in the market and what options work for your budget.I have single family and duplex investments in Austin and it is a fantastic market once you get in.

With percentage rates as low as they are now it's a fantastic time to lock in a solid rate.

I use Hamilton Home Inspections frequently and they are fantastic! 

It's fantastic that the government is attempting to help everyone, but, honestly, am I the only one that's worried about this?