We are sitting on the money while we sort a couple things out which will allow us to get our budget higher to our desired range for the next property, but I like having the option to buy at any time because the money can be withdrawn when needed.

I have several offers in on properties throughout Philadelphia and know for a fact that I'll get a few accepted or counter offers close to my desired purchase price.

From there I'm planning to renovate distressed properties for buy and holds out of state for cash flow purposes because as @Mike D'Arrigo mentioned cash flow in CA leaves much to be desired.

Are you sure you can't reduce the improvement budget and still offer an desirable product?

The OA gives them the entire process of how they need to info the Investment Group of their desire to sell, their target price and the fact that the Investment Group has the Right of First Refusal should they find someone outside the group that would like to purchase their ownership stake.

I understand their desire- but not how they plan on starting without a commitment to education first.

As my life looks to settle down I am actively looking for opportunities but now I have a stronger desire to purchase rentals.

What I would call trade up inventory in my area and the immediately surrounding areas, in the desirable pockets, seems very tight as well.  

Was thinking of building something that would help you find the cheapest place to live given a specific work-location and a maximum daily desired commute.

Once I reach the desired number of properties in my portfolio then I will implement a debt pay-down plan (everything pays off the cheapest property, then the next, then the next) and reach complete debt-free living.