If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

A few of the crowdfunding sites have proven to be quite effective and efficient. 

I can recognize this because I actually try and put the code it outputs to use, then I see these disappointing things, and re-evaluate my trust/confidence in these Ai models.

Alternatively recognize the challenges of being cash neutral at high LTV, the benefits of no longer paying a LL rent, that rates may lower such that you can refi, that over long term there will be appreciation and rent growth so it will at some point have positive cash flow, etc and lower your initial goal of cash neutral. 

Traditional refinancing and selling has proven challenging, so I’m considering more creative options, such as private lending or partnership arrangements.Questions for the Community:Have any of you dealt with a similar situation? 

If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

It's always better to go off a referral with a proven track record rather than a random number from a Google search.One caveat to consider is that without owning prior real estate or a primary residence, securing long-term financing might be more challenging.

But the sooner we recognize that the better it is for everyone involved.

I also don't know if there's a specific process we have to go through with the city for it to be recognized as a duplex down.Basically, I just don't know if the status as an illegal garden unit (the lack of ceiling height and correct zoning) prevents me legally from using the space for either of these ideas and legally, or if it's just dead space. 

But I give you a BIG kudos on recognizing this, owning it, and dedication to learning, failing-UP as we say.