They are holding the proceeds from my sale and I am planning to buy a couple of DSTs shortly.

As @Brett Synicky suggested, keep it simple, as a sole proprietorship.You are also not considering that you will have to pay $800 per year and per LLC to your greedy state.In short, get some professional advice instead of TikTok advice.

Limited labor and resources : Unlike the catastrophic fires in Lahaina Hawaii there are significant resources in Los Angeles to contribute to recover, but quality contractors, tradesman, plumbers, electricians and laborers have long been in short supply.

.- If you're going after a seller finance deal I think once you understand what it will take to get to a finished state its simply a matter of aligning your needs as far as short term cashflow with the current rents/situation, with the net number the seller needs after the refinance.  

Consider different strategies like mid and short term rentals as I believe the Portland area would allow for success in both (although I have heard Portland proper is tough on STRs).Best of luck!

That is amazing -Where did you manage to double the value on an 8 unit in a short period of time 

Look into asset classes with stronger cash flow, such as small multifamily properties, short-term rentals, or mobile home parks.

Provide the scope of work done to the appraiser.All you can do is your best, so make it nice and pretty for that appraiser.Especially if you are looking to cash out refinance shortly here.

Quote from @Andrea Wellman: Would like to invest in short term rentals to start and learn from this forum and experts.  

I just did one for like 28k, was a little short on a closing cash purchase.