Upon further inspection, I discovered that one of the existing bedrooms also lacks this.The house currently has oil steam heat and a wood stove, which for insurance reasons we are replacing with a gas stove.

What I definitely lack is local knowledge and experience.

in my market (houston and some surrounding areas) I know the realtors that have their names on the signs and can call them up to simply ask about deals, and some call me before the deals show up on the mls.

Even if you're not from California and would like to share some stories, I'm all ears.I am not seeking out a mentor, but simply seeking out some discussion and conversation. 

Unlike other vendors who just resell records, our process is a lot more complex which is simply taking a lot of time. 

A lack of pride in work and craftsmanship is a nationwide problem.

., condition and lack of needed cap ex.)The seller had reduced the price once from their initial November listing. 

All have simply said just take ACTION!

Buying sub 150k SFR rentals is simply not that complicated.. use 50% of gross to 60% of gross rents for fixed costs back out your mortgage and that's your cash flow.. if you do a little better great but this will keep you out of trouble.. just like when my accountant wants me to over pay my quarterly estimates it keeps me from having penalties even though I don't really owe that much.. same principal over estimate and live with better results.. 

Then the property title would be transferred into the LLC, thus giving you checkbook control over this and any other assets you will purchase in it.Here are some of the Checkbook IRA benefits:Ability to execute transaction directly without going through custodian or IRA Administrator, simply by writing a checkEliminate transaction fees and asset based fees (you will need to pick the right custodian with proper fee structure, the company you will chose to do this for you will help you make that selection)Eliminate delays and 'red tape' that often comes with having a custodian handle every single transaction, you can act on best investment opportunities immediatelyHope this helps.