@Jessica Brown, yes I believe that’s how they do it.

I believe it gets depreciated because it is an improvement or major construction you are doing that will eventually appreciate the price of the property.

Penfed.org a credit union based out of OR I believe will go up to 80% LTV with a 2nd position HELOC but the problem is they have a limit on the number of total financed properties at 3 max including your primary (last I checked with them).

Unless it's recently changed I do not believe Southern California has access to online assessor's websites.

I believe you need to spend an equal amount first before the loan is given.

@Marcel WilliamsI had a feeling that something like that could be the issue, but I do believe that you can still house-hack with a single family.

Online... is a long and tedious process :) but if done consistently can be a great supplementary way of getting other folks to notice you and wanting to work with you...You just have to be honest, and even if you are a tire kicker and the newbie, as long as you present your journey showing who you are and where you are coming from and why you are thinking the way you are thinking then folks will learn to trust you, believe you and connect with you, which may or may not of course result in you get the right agent in your local area.Remember what may seem tire kicking to some, and means business as usual.... to you it's the entire life savings... type of decision...  

I don't believe in sitting on the side lines until the next downturn.

I was born and raised in SF and although I do see these areas changing quickly, I don't believe it will be quick enough for you to feel safe.It sounds to me like you are not scared of getting your hands a little dirty and doing cosmetic remodels.

I believe in Maryland, you just need to have one per floor, I recommend installing them in hallways.