I am 23 years old and would be putting 80% of my savings on a down payment, but will be getting a bonus and a raise at the end of the year, and am also taking on some other work to make extra money.

Possibly start advertising that it's a 6-month lease with bonuses included, 1 month rent discounts, big TV giveaway with successful tenant placement?

Sure, it would be a nice bonus to be getting that out of property that is also likely to appreciate at the same rate CA has seen over the last 5 years.But that's why Einar is going back to the drawing board and asking the question.ie. it's too darned hard to get BOTH happening with the same investment, from day one!

If necessary, build in a "base plus bonus" structure for him in case things go south for some reason...market tanks, etc. 

So I don't know if it's wise to bet my reserve savings in marketing and partner up with someone to bring deals too (Wholesaling) and grow from there or just get my license and bank on my marketing background to get 2-4 close deals a month in retail, with the bonus of having access to the MLS and the status of being a professional being a realtor.  

I suppose it's possible that they're getting a referral bonus too by moving you over but that seems suspicious.

From mid-level traders to the top, they feel like they are entitled to take hired sedans to work, eat lobster for lunch every day and receive gigantic year-end bonuses.

All while given you radiation as an added bonus!

Overtime and bonuses has no influence on my guys anymore.

An added bonus is there is no application or appraisal because I've had a long-term (25yr) relationship with this bank.