We purposely avoid HOAs because we don't like not having control (of maintenance standards, costs, etc.). 

Remember you don't have to own a property to control it.Download BP’s newest book here some good due diligence in Chapter 10.

My name is James Sheppard, I currently live in Richmond, VA and have begun my entrepreneurial journey with real estate wholesaling.I am new to real estate but after listening to the BP podcast and also reading forums and seeing how hopefully this community is I have decided to take this leap of controlling my own destiny.I am here to contribute and learn as much as possible from the BP community.I would like to reach out to anybody in my community and in the state of Virginia that needs any help in their real estate venture.

The one point that I wanted to make sure was understood is that the improvements, whether paid before, at or after closing must be paid under the control of the Qualified Intermediary and the corresponding improvements must be completed before you take title to the property in order to be counted as "real property" for like-kind property requirements and qualify for tax-deferred exchange treatment. 

I have no idea what your dad's expertise is, an accountant familiar with inventory and process accounting along with inventory control can probably safeguard your money, if they are good.  

Marie Poe part of the risk of crowdfunding is precisely that -- the PR of how fast these deals fund. 

I also live in CA and prices are out of control.

Before i go in and try to take control of the property, should i do an assement, title search, etc.

I would love to try to control it if there is a possibility of making money.

You can buy the 2rd but still not have control of the property or be able to buy out the first morgage with enough equity to make a profit.