I have seen folks get them done, but none have ever said how long it took.I am curious how sizeable is sizeable.

Has anyone been successful in going through the variance process and do you have any tips you can provide?

Based on my five minutes glancing at those links (CA is more relevant than San Diego), it seems in your case as long as the plumbing is in order, you aren't required to make the repairs.Best wishes and good luck.

What should first-time investors be aware of when considering these types of loans, and what tips would you share for navigating the process successfully?"

I'd look into tenant laws for more specifics.That said, there are many investors who are successfully executing deals in the Bay.

She is alive and well, and hopefully will stay that way for as long as possible.

That said, I think most people perceive these two cities to be pretty much on par with each other in terms of crime.Maybe I'm wrong...

q=f8z5B-7KWMortgage DetailsHome value:$495,000Down payment:20.00%Loan amount:$396,000Interest rate:6.10%Loan term:30 yearsStart date:Aug, 2024Property tax:$6,000.00PMI:0.50%Yearly Home Insurance:$3,000Monthly HOA Fee:$0BalancePaymentsTaxes & FeesInterestPrincipalBalance20242029203420392044204920540150k300k450k015k30k45k Mortgage Repayment Summary$3,149.74Monthly PaymentPMInot required$99,000.00Down payment amount20.00%Down payment %Jul, 2054Loan pay-off date$467,906.17Total Interest Paid$500.00Monthly Tax Paid$180,000.00Total Tax Paid$250.00Monthly Home Insurance$90,000.00Total Home Insurance$37,796.87Annual Payment Amount$1,133,906.17Total of 360 Payments

I have invested as a LP in apartment communities where there is a partnership between a government agency and the ownership group to provide affordable housing in exchange for tax abatements and long-term, low-rate government funding. 

They cannot be expect to know how long certain maintenance tasks require.