Also, I replaced both toilets with efficient ones, but I didn't install low flow shower heads, could do that.

Since CA doesn't seem like a very efficient option, I've taken to exploring my options out of state.

Hello builders out in BP land.Those who have read many of my posts here on BP will note that sustainability and energy efficiency are core to our real estate business plan.  

However, I fear that as the numbers grow, we will need better organization and more efficient structures to perform all the tasks in the life cycle of a rental property.

We also self-manage and have worked REALLY hard at being efficient landlord who has no vacant and very controlled costs.Look forward to hearing about your successes!

We have small margins so we have learn to be very efficient.

So I want to be as efficient as possible going into closing and the first hours spent at the home. 

This is the cost of scaling and because of the systems you have in place, you are vastly more efficient and can handle more volume.

Do you think this is an efficient way to start my real estate career?

So they must have built for no more than $100/sqft.I've read that some developers build for $65/sqft in Florida and Texas conventional homes energy efficient with solar panels...Building on a steep lot is way more expensive indeed because of the grading, excavation and foundation works especially.