That business model works well for more static assets (private placements) but is not generally best for investments that are more time-sensitive in nature or involve a lot of transactions (rental real estate, tax liens, etc).There are a smaller number of firms that provide plans offering checkbook control. 

Get a ripping jig that fits on your circular saw

Could I ask how involved was your process of investing, how much did the RE agents help in all the process (finding properties, negotiating price, arranging inspection, paperwork, legal, etc) or was it mostly work you did on your own?

@Ike Ekeh How things go really depends on whether the parcels involved are already incorporated into the relevant municipality's growth plan. 

If it is toxic black mold, the remediation process is very involved.

For that reason, they only pencil for loans of 3M and more (which fits your big complex, but not your small.)Fannie also has a small balance loan for your smaller deal, and I believe they can do longer terms.I have a company that i've talked to about both.

Pending litigation could have been decided with final judgment entered; perhaps litigation initiated involving the property, lis pendens recorded; federal tax lien could have been recorded... lots of things can happen before settlement.

With that said:If you're looking to stay in that particular area, it's probably going to be tough to find a property that fits both your needs/wants as a homeowner and the numbers that would make it work as an investment once you move on.  3bd/2ba in that part of town seem to be running well over $500k. 

in so cal it would be RARE to have a lawyer involved in this transaction @David Weintraub  we are a title and escrow stateso take out the 1k  and the two addition doc review fee's 750 and 795  those are straight to the lender for his profit side.other than that fee's are fairly standard..

@Aja McClanahan - I think you need to get an experienced contractor/architect and maybe a zoning attorney involved.