There are plenty of variables at play, but assuming you purchase a $200k property for 20% down, your monthly payments will be around $810.

My foreign investors are cash buyers, so they need to prove thier funds to the gov, but there are no mortgagues in play. that would be too much of a pain. 

In 1998 I did a deal that played out like so:1- I had my agent find me a property in a so-so neighborhood for 32K.2- I offered 18K with $50 down; It was accepted.3- I asked the seller for the zoning certification and proof of title (I knew that my end buyer would request the same from me).4- My contract with the original seller stated that I would pay the balance in 30 days.5- I found a cash buyer in 12 days. 

Owners will often play the role of the bank if you ask them to.

I think this plays a big role in many millenials' thought process.

it's not self entitlement, its about footing the cost for the MLS, advertising licensing and everything else that gives you everyone else a bigger discount real estate market to "play in" IMHO.  

Let us know how it plays out!

We tried offering cash for keys, but that did not work.Trying to purchase the property from a relative. but every one is concerned about the dead beat who will not budge and not move at all.  

Play around with them and try to get your pictures looking professional.

Essentially you have "dead equity" and a state of California that can be tenant friendly with your 400k property.If your paper investments are with REIT's their returns cycle heavily.