But I am overwhelmed by the seemingly limitless number of ways to get financing.

It is fairly overwhelming attempting to research RE markets online due to the sheer quantity of websites and supposed experts but I have found a good system that led me to purchasing my first investment property in Surf City, NC. 

Finding vacant land in LA will be tough and you will still need access to water and power once you get it.

I've heard of folks setting up the "budget" payments through their power and gas company so you pay the same price every month and then you either pay in at the end of the year or they refund money back to you.

There is a lot of power in that.

“A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence.”James Watkins

I was surprised as well but my assumption is that the KC market is hot and they are overwhelmed with clients.

You may find it more prudent to use a real estate power of attorney for each property which the employee can present to the closing agent.

Hi @Tory Kelliher , I am fairly new to RE investing as well and I have found BP incredibly helpful in providing online training, helpful references and in general a very powerful network to share ideas or just read and learn of creative methods other members have adopted to be successful in their market. 

I was quoted several thousand dollars to re-wire the property 'split' the power, so I didn't really want to spend the cash.