The answer: it works - I proved it.

I will give you the common-sense answer below, but this is California, where common sense doesn't exist.A mandatory evacuation is outside of your control, so you shouldn't suffer financially because of it.

And, I've found that when I do find one, they don't answer their mail. ;-) I've bought a couple of probates but I found them driving for dollars (unkempt properties) and then tracked down the status. 

To answer your title directly, house hacking is entirely worth it and if you're willing to be a landlord it's 100% the best springboard to financial independence.

I got confused with a lot of the answers on this thread so thought I would confirm for you that the debt your partner gets will not be on your credit report and the debt will not negatively affect your DTI on new mortgage applications.

Assessors know who the pita's are, those same assessors have to sit on the board and answer every appeal.

Sorry this isn't really an "answer", but it's something more to think about.

Happy to connect and answer any questions you may have.

Give it a few years and keep learning so when you can answer all the questions that real estate investors ask on here, you'll know you're ready.You mentioned your family. 

If the answer is long time and yes, then San Diego could be a good market.