I've had several local referrals that didn't pan out, the search here on BP returned no one, can anyone out there refer someone before I just start randomly calling/emailing architects in the local directory? 

Just playing the game.

My name is Sean and I am new into this investing game.

Dealing with crafty tenants who know the game well 

The governor of California himself recently made a remark stating “We need to step up our game — time to be more damn competitive,”

STR is my game for now.ThanksConnie

Great job getting in the game!

This is a get rich slowly game and no need to jump into the deep end right away.If you can get it pre-leased that usually softens a lot of risk.

Typically, a hard money lender will want you to have some "skin in the game" by putting down some of your own money.

Phone it in this early in the game is not an option I'm interested in.I'm re-reading Rental Property Investing now.