I expanded fast and my reserves for sure suffered temporarily ( was taking some reserves for future downpayments) , but am aggressively building those back up, while growing my personal savings bucket, and do very strigegent tenant background checks and references.   

I'm also managing another Airbnb property, which has been instrumental in refining my property management skills, and I’m considering expanding into more property management.

That will minimize your turnover rate and make it a lot easier to attract quality house mates, plus you'll build equity quicker due to more rapid appreciation which will enable you to tap that equity and build your portfolio quicker. 

@Eboni Crenshaw Im looking to expand my wholesaler network.

This November, California voters will decide on Proposition 33, which could repeal the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, expanding rent control options across the state.

if you aren't will to or don't want to go into those types of areas, but by all means the FHA or 5% down conventional 2-4 unit loan is gonna be the way to go in my opinion.We did a house hack as our first move into reale state investing and it was the best thing we ever did and continues to expand ints benefits to us every year, So I am a huge fan of the strategy. 

I’d like to expand the “reach” of the topic a little with my below comment“For properties like these, the condition and price often don’t warrant upfront financial vetting, and too many barriers can add friction to the process.

I'm ready to start expanding my MTR portfolio and am currently in the "educate myself" phase.  

Should I continue to look in that area or shift my focus back to the expanding west loop? 

(this helps expands your geographic targets if you don't have to manage), etc.