I would also like to know what effect business structures have on taxation (LLC/ LLP/ LP).

I'm looking to connect and surround myself with locals who enjoy sharing their knowledge and experiences, and remember what it's like starting out (especially if you've successfully taken this approach recently).

I'm exploring all options at this point including finishing the home with other builders, as well as selling what has been built (slab and block walls of a single family home 4 bed 3 bath) to another builder or investor.Does anyone have any recommendations on where to look for potential buyers for something like this?

The idea of house hacking a duplex sounds like a smart strategy, and $25,000 towards the down payment and closing costs would be an amazing help.

I do not like this as obviously if a business account is only accumulating rent from 1 property, it wouldn't accrue the cash in each as quickly as it would if all of the rents were funneled into one account.. and it makes paying the bills a bit of a pain on each of the properties as I am having things done to the properties, lawn care, etc.. constantly has me making owner investment deposits into each to cover initial expenses associated with the properties.. etc. 

I haven't, but just make sure the mentor has personal experience/success AND you have access to either him or a qualified coach for as many questions as you want to ask, versus just buying a course like some people offer. 

Once you transition one of the homes into a full time rental you will reap that benefit by filing a schedule E at the end of the year.There are a few loopholes to consider like calling one home a "Vacation/Second home" which allows you to pull out 80% LTV with a better rate. 

It's likely to keep getting eliminated in areas and while a good business for true business people who care about the people, 99 percent are just out for a small check and fail fast.

Even if you create a non-CA LLC, if you are managing the business from California, you will likely be deemed to be "doing business" in California and therefore likely subject to CA taxes.

No need to make the downstairs tenant feel like there is a tattletale.