A lot of people say they can't find a good investment in LA, but you are proof that deals can be found.

I've seen other people in the forum who simply use independent savings accounts but it is not clear to me if that is legal.

There are some great meet ups in your area I'm sure and a lot of people at those meet ups are more than happy to chat and give ideas and answer questions.

Just curious how accurate it is since people could potentially rely on it for their investment analysis and could be screwed if they use the wrong numbers.... 

I'm in Oregon which basically whips people for being landlords but 99% of your problems are solved by getting good tenants so screen, screen, screen. 

The property is only 9 years old so that's why I put only $10k also, they are opening a new company that will employ thousands of people nearby so that's why I put a 6% income growth and only 3% expense.

My wife and I have overhauled our personal budget to reflect the 'pay yourself first' approach (allocate in order: income comes in -> invest -> donate -> fixed expenses -> variable expenses -> fun $$).We are looking to see what experienced people generally recommend for a holding tank for that 'invest' allocation while we target our first real estate deal.What financial vehicles have you guys used that works well for this?

There's no reason to provide details, though I do let people know if anyone asks that we do not accept bulk up-front rent payments or anything like that because I absolutely do not want a prospective tenant to think that someone else swooped in with a bunch of cash last minute.

People want to be on the water not near it.

I am in talks with a couple people now.