They need to do a better job of setting an annual budget including contributions to reserves for major repairs and replacements.

Would love to start talking with people actively investing out here...specifically any successful house hacking stories in the area.

I am looking for a local agent that has experience in finding $40-90k single family homes, no major rehab.

You are correct, if your intention is not to continue with your side self-employment business activity then Solo 401k would not be the best choice for you as you would have to terminate the plan if the plan sponsor ceases to exist.While self-directed IRA LLC does not have all of the advantages of the truly self-directed Solo 401k it would be your option if you wish to have checkbook control over your retirement moneys. 

I have been doing tons of research on real estate investing watching a lot of the bigger pockets webinars. I am very interested in making this a career because I have grown tired of being in the navy. I'm currently an...

I've discussed this with a lawyer, I am able to evict based on my zero tolerance for criminal activity addendum, but an eviction with a physically aggressive person doesn't sound like a great idea.

We are also considering using the funds to buy some gold as a hedge.My understanding is that I can deduct 100% of the interest from Loan A, and Loan B as long as I keep the funds I received from Loan B separate from our personal funds and only use them for other investing activity, is that right?   

A bit about myself, I'm currently active duty Navy stationed in San Diego, my wife who was also Navy just recently got out of the service & I think now is the best time to try to purchase our first property we are looking here in San Diego and some areas in Arizona.

Active duty military.

I know it sounds great on paper.. and it may work and if this is only 5% of your available cash you can take the risk.. but if this is the majority of your investing cash I say risk is simply too great ... .listen to @Curt Davis sage advice he has been around the block for many years and is not trying to sell U something like all the rest of the folks posting on this thread.