IMO Forbes is the best among financial/business news sources and the only financial periodical I subscribe to (15 years and counting).However, I do question their assessment and recommendations here. 

Understanding that will be critical to getting the right type of financing for your deals.  

@Jacob Brattain the advice from @John Jacobus is critical. 

‘lifestyle’ business – ie simply intended to be run by and to provide an ongoing source of work and income for the proprietors, no clear vision for the long term future?

I should add that he is saying this because real estate is not our primary source of income, we still earn more from our day jobs.

Kitchen has had an active leak- source unknown- that has damaged most of the cabinets, master shower and tub are non-functional, AC unit needs to be replaced, garage door needs to be replaced.

It seems there are grey areas when it comes to wholesaling in California and as I educate myself to start my business I want to ensure my sources are good.

I spend much of my time traveling, and want to make a transition to travel less and to create an avenue of passive income that could eventually become my primary source.

The off market deals come from a variety of sources but most the off market listings are not very impressive.  

Podcasts were my primary source of education & what gave me the confidence to make the plunge.