but they weren’t a result of (1) A great “landing “ page (2) a genius (expensive) marketing plan, or a memorized “script” that wowed sellers, although those things as well as some others would properly enhance deal flow.  

However, the hard part is the expensive bay area entry price - even with the VA loan, it's still difficult to find places that makes sense for both while we house hack and when it's turned into investment property if we move.

Some will accept lower FICO scores than others, some require that you close in an entity, some won't allow first time homebuyers....just some things to keep in mind. 

Last year I was in Prague for 2 months while I was trying to close on new construction in FL, and i ended up having to do multiple embassy trips (which needs to be scheduled a week in advance), multiple expensive air mailing, and in the end I got back to the US and signed it there because everything was still screwed up.

Because laws and customs vary considerably by state, the first thing I would do is find a good RE attorney who is well versed in private lending IN YOUR STATE.Knowledge of SAFE act considerations, Usury laws, etc can save you a boat load of money and headaches later.I would probably also suggest either placing your funds with a lender who has a pool (you'll get a lower return) or working with a broker very experienced in private loans.

I decided to fix up (20+K expenses in the last 3 months) and have signed the realtor contract last week to sell.

We get a lot of CA investors in our market here in Tahoe Reno, NV that are looking to 1031 exchange out of CA and into Nevada for the lower property taxes and no state income tax benefitsCarlan C.

Guild is also one of the most expensive lenders out there, they are a big behmoth with private and public shareholders to please, so costs are much higher to drive profit for them.I am a local house hacker/investor and lender for WA State, and would be glad to help you with this @Chelsae Roach!

Current annual income is $101k-Annual rent increases of 3% are realistic making annual income after 10 years $136k-If interest rates lower a refinance would lower annual mortgage expense-an added bonus over time would be appreciation (which will likely not happen within the next few years)Thank you for any input!

Often times there are better deals to be had that exist at a lower entry point and also deliver better returns.