Hi all, My spouse and I have a full time W2 jobs and we are looking into real estate investment (SFR - buy and hold strategy for now).

I have a job for working for Google Fiber and am currently saving as much as I can so I will at least be able to cover any vacancies and some of the renovations.

Philadelphia would be better with more opportunity in the affordable housing space 

My lender packaged and sold my mortgage, and when I called the new servicer to inquire about a HELOC/ Home Equity Loan they told me I wasn't eligible because of my short ownership duration.I am planning to pay for most of the improvements with cash I have on hand from my W2 job, but I want to get something set up in case of an emergency repair/ use towards other investment opportunities.

Fortunately, I have a 401K through my job and have built up some equity from my primary residence.On the other hand, my mom, who is turning 60, is facing retirement without any dedicated funds.

Most will require some skin in the game and they lend on the property and your experience, not your jobs.  

Keep learning and exploring opportunities, and you'll continue to progress toward your goals.

I did a horrible job at vetting this tenant for my ADU, however, I have done nothing but right by this tenant and has numerously asked that she put her boyfriend on the lease to ensure he is covered for rental insurance to keep me safe.

Or am I just getting paid to do another job?

I believe California does have some great opportunities.