I truly want to take action.

You mentioned a career change, I think going into the trades like plumbing and electrical are great and you can make good money doing those, but I think you may be taking on too much by trying to do that right now.

That being said, the trade off are higher fees and rates.

I am not sure the best action but I am an investor and wholesaler in New Orleans and would be happy to chat more and see if I can help.

I would ask any friends and family who are in the trades for referrals. 

What actions and/or credentials make a landlord an active property manager to deem rental income/loss active in CA?

The trade-offs are real, but for consistent cash flow and the right landlord, it can be an excellent strategy.What’s the best way to start?

Both poverty and riches are the offspring of thought”Mans Search for Meaning: - “What matters, is not the meaning of life in general but rather the specific meaning of a person’s life at a given moment”The Richest Man in Babylon: - “To attract goodluck to oneself, it is necessary to take advantage of opportunities” - “Men of action are favored by the goodness of good luck”The Millionaire Next Door: - “Looks can be deceiving”

Homeland covers: Stopping financial fraud, illegal trade and the sale of fake goods to protect the U.S. economy, American businesses and your money." 

Networking with real estate professionals, agents, and other investors can uncover valuable opportunities like off market, trades, and even owner financing deals.