@Paul Boyett, in my opinion, it depends on your financial situation and risk tolerance. 

I'm a fellow San Diego resident who is also interested in multi-units OOS.In response to your question, from the research I've been doing (and outside of the residential vs commercial aspect that @Sherwin Gonzales brought up), a big part will be your comfort level and financial goals. 

First of all, is there a more financially smart location to buy a condo?

I have 7 more days of financial contigency.

We got a great job, came out whole financially and managed to keep the job site a friendly place to be. 

Okay, then on a 400k loan, stick with 3.750% rate with no lender credit to pay towards closing cost vs a few tax deductible dollars more per month at 3.875% rate  with $8000 lender credit to pay towards closing cost.Any more financial wizards want to comment?

They’ll be requiring financials up front.

However, after learning more about real estate investing this week, I realized there were different paths to financial independence.

On the CRT website, one type of dispute they will look at is "issues of financial responsibility for repairs and the choice of bids for services."

I’ve decided enough is enough it is time to take action towards financial freedom.