So you're not really comparing apples to apples here.Also, most likely the syndication/crowdfunding deal you are comparing to is a completely different real-estate asset class than single family (i.e. probably multi-family,office, self storage,mobile home parks or something else).

@Srinath Gopinathan, I'm sure you can physically go to the assessor's office and get this information.

I would let your loan officer know that them telling you that you will skip 2 payments is a direct TRID violation.

Also I was home alone during the kids school hours as I worked from home and my office was to the side of the kitchen.

I'm going to try call the state office and see what information they provide me.

@Rashim Sharma your biggest challenge will actually be finding a lender.There are two banks that have offices in USA and Detroit that often will lend to Canadians buying in the USA.Can refer you to a Tax Attorney here is the US that has hundreds of Canadian clients with US properties:)

I grew up in Riverside, and now I'm currently a Loan Officer for a Mortgage Company in San Bernardino County.

I gave May a call and left a message and Jeff won’t be back in the office till Tuesday. 

Not sure what loan you’ll be using to acquire your first deal but make sure you have a great loan officer who can give you the ins and outs of each owner occupied loan.

Make sure your land is zoned for the type of structure you're wanting to build by calling the city/county planning and permits office.