But I strongly urge anyone to always get Aldermanic support before proceeding because it makes life--and the entire project / process--a whole lot easier. :)IN SUM: Based on what you've shared, it sounds like you won't need to rezone if you just want to build a duplex.

Can I still write those expenses on my Schedule C?

I desire to begin investing asap so I started the process of  learning as much as I can by reading and watching videos.

I ask because most who write similar posts on BiggerPockets are unable and I am sorry but  "A unique blend of benefits that are favorable for R.E investors who are sole proprietors" sounds like something a  fear mongering asset protection company will tell you before upselling the expensive and unnecessary asset protection product.

I like the sit and wait plan.. no sense burning cash on things that cant get processed now anyway.  

Though, this process will be the same for the other state (if you created a CA LLC you may need to register it as a foreign LLC in the state in which you are doing business/holding property).

Moving on was tough, but helping him make peace with that was main part of the negotiation process no one else touched on.

The systems you have in place to handle leads, follow-up and your sales processes are also huge factors.Another factor is what is your monthly marketing budget?

Quote from @Michael Challenger: I have no qualms with hard money lending, but I need to learn more about the process and structure to these for typical deals so that I am more comfortable and in a position to reduce my personal risk and risk to investors as much as possible.

If they did it would likely go back to letting the cities do whatever they want to do, and those legislatures would have their process, so it is difficult and takes a lot of time.