Hi Everyone -  I've decided that it's time to take the plunge (TAKE ACTION) as I've heard so many times via the podcasts, articles.

Here is a great article about the need for more housing assistance. 85,000 people applied to be in the lottery where 30,000 will be added to the wait list.

Read the articles here on BP, forums, etc.

I read this article, but this struck me more as a case study: https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/04/0...Right now, I live in CA and have a duplex in OR and another duplex in CT (forced to be an out-of-state investor due to home prices in Southern California).

BP article covering the topic:https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/27/ultimate-guide-fnma-homestyle-renovation-mortgage/

@Tariq Bahay this article is perfect, I have an open house at one of my local technical schools this Thursday, I'm looking to gain knowledge in the carpentry trade, but I've been struggling because the thought of school loans and wondering if I should stay hands off is battling with the DIY concept.

There are a bunch of articles that compare renting vs buying.  

We provide a little more information on charging for late fees and other items here:https://support.cozy.co/hc/en-us/articles/20977180...

There's talks of a tram from the valley into LA city too which may even out the market here just a bit, but it may not have a huge impact.I took a look at the article that you posted on owning a primary residence, it makes some good points but there are a few points that I would make adjustments to.

I would suggest to start at the Bigger Pockets home page at www.BiggerPockets.com and read some of the articles...