I am not a broker, so I use a broker to originate our loans, according to the process I outlined above.I do recognize the privacy issues with recording a note and accept this as a vote against doing it.

I attended a Real Estate course which outlined  a 20 year cycle and thought maybe there was articles or books  on it.

@Max Powers with almost all shopping retail centers they have CC&R's  (Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions) that outline that with the signing of a tenant that a similar tenant cannot interfere or be leased too.  

If not using cash or hard money, your contract should also outline a financing contingency, which has it's own timeline, such as:Make application for financing within 3-5 days of contract acceptance (this is the next step after getting pre-approved.

It is a legal contract, usually for one year, that spells out line by line, similar to a lease, exactly what is expected of the property management company, and what the fees will be, maintenance threshholds and more.  

With prices here, most CA borrowers don't have this problem, even now in the Inland Empire and Apple Valley.Rather than rewrite it or quote, you might check out this related thread which outlines many of the questions you could ask an HML and a few ways to ensure they are honest.  

What is your pet policy, as outlined in your rental agreement?

For the type of lifestyle you and your husband have, the strategy outlined in that book seems like a perfect fit.It's a quick read, you won't regret it.  

I scratch out and initial NOT in the assignable clause.My first offer is always an LOI (letter of intent) that outlines 3 scenarios I would be willing to purchase.

You are at the right location to find like minded people, and should have no problem being able to reach your RE investing goals.There are countless stories both in the forms and BP blogs that outline this specific technique you have used to get started, and can help you get to the next level.