.- Do you feel that being a CPA that knows tax would be a material advantage when it comes to a career as a MLO? 

When we represent others we put the criterion on the marketing material.

From what I'm reading so far others are suggesting to have an REI attorney draft a contract in which should the buyer stop making payments, that the seller would retain rights back to the house?

It is based on lociation, materials, square footage, # of stories, # of bathrooms, etc.

Common fees will include a set-up fee, leasing fee for each turnover or a lease renewal fee, marking up maintenance, retaining late fees, and more.

This is called "material participation".

Next, the short-term rental can only be active if the owner puts in more hours than anyone else by materially participating in the management of the property.

Common fees will include a set-up fee, leasing fee for each turnover or a lease renewal fee, marking up maintenance, retaining late fees, and more.

I run a top 1% team in CA for agents (I'm based in LA as well) - and would be happy to help provide you with any study materials or guidance you need along the way!

Many people use the Hardie sheets, the labor is less, but the material costs more per sq ft.