I am a draftsman by trade and I have autocad.

I would like the most bang for my buck and would love a duplex or any other multi-unit property, the more units the better in my opinion, especially if it is over 5 units so that I can add value to the property by increasing its NOI and trading up by doing a 1031 exchange or refinancing and expanding, versus just purchasing a single family residence with a single tenant. 

1) Ask for trade license, insurance, references2) Not providing any of the above, or license not in the contractor's name3) You don't.

Either they want something from me, I want something from them, or we can trade things of value, like our time. 

Since you are a newbie investor I would recommend sticking to one stratedgy rather being jack of all trades. 

I find that hands on experience is the best way to learn New trades.  

It seems like the primary trade off is a quality of tenant base for ROI on your money (less hassle).My two properties so far were probably in a C and C- neighborhoods, and those were mixed result.  

Essentially, you're looking to trade your current situation for a materially lower cost situation.

hey guys, my name is Hans and i'm from Denmark, Europe. i can't start real estate investing aka owning proprieties yet because i am to be out of country for two years for my church. my plan is to invest in multi family apartments when i return and later on become a jack of all trades.

I have joined bigger pockets in the hopes of learning more about the laws and regulations, tools of the trade, and general information about investing in the California real estate market.