Totally helps clarify - I may have to go through this a few times, but it makes sense.Eriktax's are calculated in Oregon the same way and I think probably CA.. 

Just wanted to introduce myself for my first post.I currently live in Orange County, CA, i'm a Marine Corps Vet and a full time student at the moment.

You also have the Hard Money loan route if you absolutely must move forward with the deal.If your family has money, why not use that monies to fix your credit and in turn you can pay them back when you run into a good deal or share profits on a good deal.Cash is king but like in the game of chess, credit represents a Queen which is the most powerful asset you can have in this game called RE.

I've owned a 4-plex property in Long Beach, California.

This *can* raise the desireability of your property, especially if you're in a state like California where the electric bills are really high.

I know in California $300K will get you a 1bd apt.

I live in Long Beach, CA and the market here is way too expensive for me to get started.

My area is not California or East Coast.

Allen,Actually something you might not have thought of is that because you're in the LA market and CA which in general can be very expensive and restrictive.

As a first-time investor, does it make sense to explore getting a fourplex in CA?