The cost is the same once you compare apples to apples to a traditional CMU or concrete wall.

Then, more advanced stuff that those without licenses will have a tough time with: active real estate agents working the area - so i can call them to preview my house - in case they run into potential buyers they know of in their office, Then, I have Listingbook software on my I-phone ( Works with MLS data- by subscription)- that actually knows the number of searches of homes in any given area - so I can blast a promotion of my house to all the agents that have clients looking in the area (not just my subdivision -unless that is what I want), and...for the investor in me: track all the mortgages recorded against the property, so I know how low of an offer I can make - based on the mortgages on the property.

I think the biggest mistake some people make when trying to make an apples-to-apples comparison is that they do not put a fair value on their time.

Am I comparing apples and oranges.  

It is going to be the relatively few "rotten apples" that you have to be careful about.A home isn't seen as a quick source by the "rotten apples" to get cash.

I try to schedule all my showings in a 2-3 hour window (15 minute increments) on Sundays and I can't find a simple way to keep up with times, contact names, and phone numbers using the standard calendar app for iphone.

You're comparing apples and oranges.

A "bad apple" minority of landlords give a bad name to the profession.

I think the best source is going to be directly from the MLS.My only other tip is to make sure you are comparing apples to apples and oranges to oranges on the MLS or have an experienced investor help you with comps.

HI Clint I work locally and based on the that price range you might have to go to the inland empire, apple valley/victorville area, or in the san bernardino or riverside counties.East LA areas, long beach, anaheim, or santa ana are probably the lowest multi unit area in terms of pricing for LA and OC but it can be a bit rough too.