Although it can be a revenue source, I think many landlords just charge an application fee so this way the potential tenant has enough skin in the game. 

Establish a repayment plan with the tax assessor.2.

Yes, but that doesn't mean you can't get in the game. 

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.

The trouble we've found with established or as you call them "stable" tenants is that they feel as though they have more ownership of the building than you do - it's a funny, unbalanced power dynamic that's just awkward.

@Nicholas Reyes I could be wrong but I think your best bet would be to establish either an LLC or LLP and then the taxes would fall onto the company and not onto the individuals.

Buy in either: - Established, affluent areas: Pacific Heights, Presidio, Cow Hollow, Sea Cliff OR- Tier 2 areas that might become more affluent: Mission Bay, Potrero, Dogpatch, MAYBE "Outer Sunset" (although yes - it's probably in a lower tier than the others) 2) Are we likely to make money if we invest in a cosmetic renovation of an older place or is the cost of labor and materials in SF likely to diminish our potential profits to a negligible amount. 

My lender worked very closely with me through both closings, making sure I had correct and legal paperwork on the first closing so that it would go through smoothly for the second, walking through the timeline with me, following up on the appraisal and just really being on top of her game for the entire process.

Wholesaling is the game, and I'd appreciate someone rounded enough that this is in their wheelhouse.Help!

You almost certainly have been there long enough to establish residency.