I've begun to wonder if my initial dislike towards properties with CDD & HOA fees would actually be a good idea considering they have community pools.

Welcome Jack and great to have you here in the community. 

My retirement account is a Florida state retirement fund (so, I would have to quit my current job and possibly pay taxes and applicable penalties on the 70k and, there is a 3 month waiting period once employment is terminated).  

I have a lot left to learn, but I am excited to start getting involved in the community! 

I've begun to wonder if my initial dislike towards properties with CDD & HOA fees would actually be a good idea considering they have community pools.

The Barrio Hollywood Neighborhood was one of these neighborhoods that was hit hard during the housing crisis, but has recently seen home prices soaring.I recently made a large investment in the area, and am excited to see attention it is garnering from the local community.

- you make 50% of the net profit - that is net less advertising or expensive - so if the expenses are $1,000 you would make $9,500.00 and I would make the same.The expenses are usually the cost of advertising the property for sale.So............... it you are ready to begin creating leads - this is what I suggest you do ---Farm neighborhoods to look for FSBO's, send me as many expired listings as you can in the neighborhoods where we are going to invest, Go to housing court 2-3 times a week to listen to the cases and meet landlords after their case is called, run some ads in the local papers (I will design the ad for you), get me a list of all the local auctioneers in the community, put flyers on super market bulletin boards, ask 5 people a day if they know of anyone interested in selling their real estate.Look for commercial and business real estate for sale - get me all that information and we'll make a call to get information and make them an offer (you present the offer for us)Later in the "Mentor - Apprentice relationship we will advertise on radio.Any questions?

It's in a small community in Northern LA county, CA.

I would not bother saying no because I would be rejecting his application to rent.

BP seems to cut though it to provide valuable insights from folks who have been there, done that.I appreciate any advice community members can provide.