A better expectation is to find a 2 unit property, live in it a few years, then refinance and buy your next property here in SoCal.

Some counselors are better than others, so try to find someone who has experience in logistics and especially managing employees.FedEx Ground is a different company than FedEx Express.  

I looked at ABNB but I think the LTR fit may be better for me at this time. 

Unfortunately I don't think there's a better option than a HYSA. 

A better question might be: What are you doing with a property that has negative cashflow or is not producing the return you expected? 

Are there better properties to look into for instance an apartment over a house?

I felt better, and he's a member of the iron workers union.

I'd rather not do an entire cash-out refi because I have a much better rate on the property than I could get today.With a 70% LTV planning factor, I'd still have plenty of room for the cash I'm looking for to make the down payment (~125k).Thanks for any help/advice!

I did do a cash out refi to get my Corte Madera home, which is its saving grace that makes me feel better) but on this rental now with my mortgage, property tax, HOA fees, and insurance my 2023 was negative. 

Whereas, if you wait to start at 30, and let’s say you have a better rate of return at 9%, starting with the same initial investment of $50,000, at 38 you have $100,000, at 46 $200,000, at 54 $400,000, at 62 $800,000 an at 68 $1,600,000.