I’ve been toying with the idea of buying a duplex and house hacking in west LA mainly for the financial incentives that house hacking can yield, but also because I’d obviously feel much more comfortable living close to (or in) the first property I buy and being able to learn first-hand from being there.

If you have product recommendations on those I'm open.The cabinetry is kind of unique.

I would suggest contacting Hocker and Associates - they are real estate attorney plus title company so should be able to help you with any unique situation you might have.

And all 3 were unique. 1 we had a heads up on before it hit, 1 was in an area (rural and CA) where there was no competition from other investors, and 1 I had been talking to the seller as a FSBO, they ghosted me and then listed and the agent screwed up and said it was a short sale when it was not.

Hi PaulThis is a unique situation.

Jasmin is the daughter of Isaac Larian, CEO of toy company MGA Entertainment, whose products include Bratz dolls and L.O.L.

It's quite a unique asset class and takes some time and studying to wrap one's head around.

However, I find it somewhat unique that only one unit is managed by the PM company.

It takes time to find your unique voice. 

For this reason, many lenders/appraisers will not count unique/hard to value items such as mother in law suites, pools (in some areas), golf memberships, etc.