Even the nicer homes don't rent for over $2,750 a month there.

Hey Jon would recommend checking out FB groups if you aren't local (looks like you're based in the Bay).

I agree with Collin.At the very least, you need 2nd home, "vacation rental" insurance.

Hey BiggerPockets Community,If you're a real estate investor or developer eyeing opportunities in Los Angeles, SB-9 (the California HOME Act) could be a game-changer for your strategy.

Where buyers/tenants can view dozens of properties in a day to screen out less desirables then schedule with a real agent to see the home in person!

I plan to purchase a primary residence, multi-family home (2-5 units, 'house-hack'). 

You can work with a local credit union that does HELOCs, Home Equity Lines of Credit or Loans, on investment property.

I see that in my area, many agents buy homes either from wholesalers or at auctions. 

Based on 27.5 yr straight line depreciation, that's about $1,700 of missed annual depreciation; $25,000 over 15 years - and at an ordinary tax rate of say 30% tax could amount to $7,500 off my current tax bill. 

But based on him saying that the loan is "being paid off every month by my buyer" it seems that we're dealing with A, subject-to.We need clarity, Anirudh.