Living in the Los Angeles area sounds somewhat similar to what you experienced with cost of homes etc. thank you for writing this up!

Really about growing a strong portfolio of solid deals.Now that being said, if you are a high income earner, well qualified, and can't find reasonably good deals: (i) you can connect with a well connected real estate agent for off-market deals; (ii) you might do a very narrow cost-effective cold call or letter writing.

And when I speak with people (or write on my blog) I'm always VERY transparent about the unique challenges of the market there.

I think having it in writing from a plumber would help this case a lot.

The US Tax systems, when compared to the EU, seems to be setup for capitalists. 1031 exchanges, write-offs, etc.

you can always call or email the tenant in regards to this matter. i personally smoke as well and just would want my tenants happy and not feeling accused as its a big problem with a lot of tenant v landlord situations around the country. you can always say you got a report of the odor of weed and was just verifying the smell with both tenants on the property. you can restate your conditions with smoking. you can always ask if they are legally able to do so as well (meaning medical card). depending on how you want to handle it, if you want to make it a legal warning to the tenant as well, you should write a written letter sent by mail stating you got a report of weed and this is a written warning in case this a problem down the road, you have evidence to show the court if it gets to that matter that this is not your first occurrence. best of luck!

If I liked to travel I’d be writing this from one of those year long around the world cruises. 

I ask because most who write similar posts on BiggerPockets are unable and I am sorry but  "A unique blend of benefits that are favorable for R.E investors who are sole proprietors" sounds like something a  fear mongering asset protection company will tell you before upselling the expensive and unnecessary asset protection product.

@Henry Clark Your writing skills is excellent.I learned & enjoyed at the same time.

The homeowner insurance market right now is a dumpster fire with carriers refusing to write business and creating incredibly tight underwriting guidelines.