This just a lucky break for me however that the seller ended up being an very ethical individual. 

Next I would try to find a smaller area within the zip code and then start searching for individual properties.If I can’t find anything in California, I would start looking elsewhere using the same steps.In your opinion, is that a good approach?

Also your individual goals.

As a small time RE investor (two properties), I'm thinking it just makes the most sense to 'shift' some of the deductions I used to enter on a Sched A over to the Sched E because of the new rules/deductions with the Tax Cut & Jobs Act.

I'll just pay to 2% or 3% commission to the buyer's broker, and keep the rest for myself, individually. 

Once you learn of those developers in the community you'll then begin to be able to create relationships with those individuals and start to invest in the commercial deals. 

Your book will still be a mess.You get a typical bookkeeper that can pay bills and enter receipts.

If there is anyone that know of such individuals, please let me know.

With the fix and flip calculator I entered all the numbers including (minus closing costs, points to real estate agents, transfer fee, carrying costs, property taxes, etc) and based on the profit i wanted I got a higher offer number than the %70 rule calculator . 

It's for like minded individuals who have a lower chance of a catastrophic health problem.