Speaking with a local real estate expert, particularly one who has knowledge with VA loans, can help you receive information that is specific to your case and the status of the market.

Hey Shane, I'd recommend some sort of short term financing with using your personal assets as the collateral or something besides that specific property as collateral.

Sure, no one has to accept any specific offer...calling for highest and best doesn't mean they have to choose highest and best, just that they're saying they want to make sure everyone has put their best foot forward.

A good lender or loan officer will see your specific financial profile, tell you what is and isnt possible, and ultimately should give you suggestions on what to aim for and focus on so that you can get what you need to eventually be ready to purchase. 

Additionally, you can charge them a pet deposit and pet rent, as well as call it out specifically in the lease in the additional notes section (i.e.

You're right, a CPA would be able to answer your specific tax questions, but I do know that as a single member LLC, the default tax status is disregarded entity.

Training/workshops are useless on a national level as almost all aspects are very state specific, and often county/city specific. 

Then I look at specific areas using neighborhoodscout.com for the crime part. 

Does anyone have experience in this market, have any specific guidance or recommend any investor-friendly agents I could connect with? 

Check for any encumbrances or liens on the property: Before finalizing the purchase, make sure to conduct a thorough title search to ensure that there are no encumbrances or liens on the property that could affect your ownership rights.While you can start with a California Real Estate Purchase Agreement template, it's important to remember that each transaction is unique, and you may need to include additional provisions or negotiate specific terms with the seller.