The listing shows that it has the potential to cash flow around 5K per month after paying for the loan.

Even on a $30k house, I need $7500 plus escrow and $10k-$20k for rehab.

The property had a main house that was in livable condition, but mostly original from 1986.

If you want a small-multi look for a larger house with a guest house (or ADU has they call them in California) and then try to rent it to an extended family. warmest, Susan 

We are doing some new vinyl plank flooring (not through the entire house), paint on the main floor, minor electrical work, replacing a door, new ceiling fan, minor plumbing, etc.. 

The blonde (there's a reason I mention that :-) young lady said,"oh it has been great, but I hate to inform you that you have ants in your cute little house"I was shocked, I had never had any bug problem, let alone ants......

I did a YouTube video about how I found, negotiated, underwrote, and bought this house here @RobDoesREI: https://youtu.be/PR3kYZVA3oI?

If you stay in California, I'd recommend a house-hack of some type.

If I buy a house hack that needs work that is projected to take 8-9 months and can't reside in the house until it is completed or can only be there between jobs can I still claim it as a primary residence?

Here's how you can find good deals on properties that might need some work or are priced lower than usual:Connect with People - Make friends with real estate agents, lawyers, and others who know about properties that need to be sold quickly or aren't in great shape.Reach Out Directly - Send letters or use websites to contact property owners who might want to sell fast.Look Around - Drive or walk around neighborhoods to find houses that look like they need fixing up.