These properties are generally in high demand, but on a positive there will be drastically less new inventory of competing rental properties. 

Highly appreciated.Does that mean I can deduct this loss from any rental profit from any of my properties or should it be just deducted from the same property income in the future year?

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

This gives a better snapshot of market trends than averages, which can be skewed by high or low sales.November: $484,995December: $484,500January: $491,995 How long would it take for my home to sell?

Another way is to check out this website.

Keeping rehab costs in check means focusing on high-impact upgrades like kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal, while avoiding over-improving the property.

Highly recommend looking into Baselane for your rentals.

I did not pay for the course or get any deeper because I figured 1) High return = high risk, and I am at a point where I can't afford to lose that kind of money; and 2) I didn’t see a value in a course- why not network with local investors who need down payment, and work it out directly on a deal that I could more easily underwrite?

Not a full fledged house hack, but enough to take the sting out of the rate we got.Not all of Citrus Heights is the same, but the area near Fair Oaks/Orangevale/Carmichael has a good balance of price and quality.

Refinance is one way to do it, if you want to avoid getting new debt because cash flow is high look into lease options to buy or executory contracts.