“Tuition and commission” were achieved in this case.

It seems that you are contemplating great options and terms like the 2% rule, but you have to know that not even savvy investors are achieving this around the US and def. not in California. based on some answers you gave above: you said you don't know anything about rehabbing, managing a property, etc Learn more about this: read the books, go to the meet ups, network. 

The investors who meet their goals are the ones who are laser focused on the goal and take those daily actions to achieve them.

If I were in your position, this is how I would achieve that: First use the cash from a refi to purchase two properties all cash.

If you can achieve this and still make a solid profit with a 275k Price tag, they should sell FAST.  

I was wondering what type of actions I can do to achieve the desired floor plan legally. - If I am unable to receive an answer from the property owners, what course of action could I take to have the light well infilled if at all possible (going to court?). 

If you are trying to achieve other things with your assets - have your kids join the "family business"; learn to get along with each other; continue your empire; etc - then you are going to need to have a lot of buy-in from your kids.

A property manager/leasing agent to see if and how much a premium you can achieve in rents. 

Most of the properties we manage are in neighborhoods that achieve rents from $2000 to $5000+.I also have a single-family investment property that is approaching 20-years old and will need some love soon.

Hi Nathan, i am a Real Estate Agent actively working with investors to achieve their Real Estate goals.