since these are probably the lowest costing marketing material.

It's tough to find construction/contractors  right now too. .  

Any suggestions on educational materials, words of advice, etc.?

Working in a sellers market has been tough but i have adapted and learned, as a result my business has grown substantially because of it.My goal is to not only help myself become financially independent but to also help my Dad retire in the process.

Offering different options as finishing material such as colors, flooring, cabinetry and etc. 

If your goal is appreciation and/or that's what your market bears and you have forecasts of declining values, that's a tough spot.  

You're going to have a tough time becoming a landlord in socal with less than 50 or 60k in cash (my $0.02).

I would love to buy a rental property with a good cap rate, but they are tough to find.  

Not only am I stuck in an underperforming deal, but I've also given away 25 cents on the dollar for the privilege of doing so.Many investors don't think acquisition and disposition fees are nearly as material as they are, b/c they don't account for the fact a only equity pays for a fee on the entire asset value.  

Besides for the networking opportunities here on BP, the educational material here is invaluable.