Proper is a big one, very comprehensive and expensive (we have this), Foremost, CBIZ are others.Many insurance companies now offer STR policies.

If you are getting significantly lower on the ARM option - probably a good bet

We did a light remodel and posted it for sale based on what other comps sold quickly for in 2023.Very little interest so we've continually lowered the price.

The shed is not cool if it really is one, but my guess is it does not have a foundation, so it's no really a building.On the bright side, sounds like you have long-term tenants, which greatly reduces your turnover expenses.

Same goes for number of LLCs and what to fund them with, since bear in mind that CA tends to be more cumbersome and expensive to have LLCs than other states.California is generally more cumbersome than other states when it comes to taxes and filings.

I am considering starting with Staten Island and Long Island, as they seem to have relatively lower barriers to entry in terms of pricing.

if you have the ability to provide these appliances and  can hook them up safely and  easily -   do it and increase the rent a bit  ....if it is  challenging to get these installed / hooked up - forego the  appliances and make  rent lower for the tenants inconvenienece

The two main motivations buyer’s opt for a sub to purchase is (1) little capital investment (2) lower interest rate than currently available.I’ve worked numerous sub to deals from all sides - but mostly on commercial property.  

Too expensive.

Have a lower monthly payment, not pay PMI, be able to save a bit more from the W2 jobs each month, as well as having a greater percentage of the mortgage covered by the upstairs tenants.