One of my close friends in the busines had a similar setup.. her husband was also a contractor, and together they tackled a fixer-upper that ended up netting them a solid profit on their first deal.When you’re hunting for the right property, I’d lean on a realtor who really understands investor math... someone who’ll help you break down potential cash flow or resale value.

I did a "blind" assessment where I paid/reimbursed a close family friend to go in as a guest because there were a lot of details I wasn't privy to- and wanted to understand (the whole experience and process from the guest perspective from the initial inquiry, emails, etc.).They shared the email communications (some of which was glitchy or not quite as good as what I'd expect, or told me of delays in receiving responses).

I would call or email a specialist in FIRPTA such as "Tax solutions FIRPTA consulting" in Katy Texas, since they can answers all questions about the law plus investor friendly lenders

Do you know the area very well or have family/friends that live in the area?

From what I've heard, CA is very ADU friendly so check with your city on what's allowed.

I have a friend here who has about 140 houses right now, who I was discussing return on equity with.

Another good strategy is to connect with a local property manager that does real estate sales, or can refer to an investor-friendly agent. 

Shortly, after joining I was able to help a friend that was in sticky situation with his home and also helped another family with theirs.

You have a friend, He will rent it in its present condition as soon as you make it available to him for $90 per month. 

My son wants to move to Sacramento, his friends family lives there.