I'm looking for some good strategies for sourcing off market deals, in and around the Los Angeles area.  

This is one of my favorite features of Bigger Pockets especially for asking specific questions.

The source of our health problems was determined to be toxic black mold, ultimately resulting in the total loss of our home and the equity on which we were depending.

Want to avoid drawing off of everything we've got for as long as we can, but it would be great if we could get another revenue source within the next 3 months. 

Are you within a 1-1.5 hr drive of a major job source?

A hard money loan is an asset-based loan with a high interest rate that usually serves as a short-term source of financing for borrowers who can’t qualify for a mortgage with a typical bank or mortgage lender.

When looking at rental comps what features/amenities have value when setting rent?

There are a couple podcasts that feature real estate agents, you should check them out.

Line up your potential financing sources first.

I've had a string of successes investing my own money and would eventually (after a few more personal deals) raise money from outside sources.