I think it is super important to clarify here, a mentor does NOT have to be an official paid training or teaching course.

If you go to their official website, they have some nice PDFs that describe various scenarios of how you can use VA loans - give it a read. 

So, if you are using this property exclusively to rent out...then it won't officially be a "Second Home" and it would be an investment property. 

@Chris BrallI’ve been a building and zoning official for many years.  

I have no official numbers but it might be commom actually for high networth types to own in Cali.

Even if the state law says one thing, often the local officials implement their own rules it seems.Generally in Texas the previous owner needs to request the overage within 30 days.

You also need to consider the paintings - to the point of @Michael Plaks, if you could have picked up a bunch of prints from Hobby Lobby to decorate the place - why did you do the $3,500 options?

Maybe, when you officially move, house hack a deal in PA... just a thought. 

Start by reaching out directly to owners who might sell but haven't officially listed their homes.

If you want to appear 'official and professional' the the cost of attorney is the cost of doing business.