Though it wasn't what I planned or expected, just glad its over and was able to move on to different project.

When you invest, it is a good idea to have a 5-10 year hold horizon that you are planning for, not just looking at the immediate situation in an area. 

And don’t skip the due diligence—inspect everything and plan for unexpected costs.Take it one step at a time, and you’ll do great.

We plan to build a cabin or cabins for our family use and an STR.

This only really matters if you plan to buy a house again soon...within 9-12 months4.

You'll find that your best talent is already working at another lender or is planning to transition to the broker side. 

I’m based in Utah and plan to invest in long-term rentals in UT, OK, and/or TX.

My plan was to purchase a lot and build a foundation, bring in a doublewide/manufactured house. have it placed on foundation and have a structural engineer reclassify it as fixed real estate. then, I would refinance. 

However, are you planning to do a 1031 exchange, or is this a primary residence? 

I knew the fire insurance would be CA Fair Plan.