@Faysal Alam, you are experiencing a common blocker to anyone doing something new.

Private back yard common space. 

Evictions can be more common than you think.

Since I'm new to the process, I'm wondering if this is a common thing.

Being on Bigger Pockets is simply content marketing and lead cultivation for those selling services in the real estate industry.

It's a very common phenomenon with those who just don't want to see beyond the curtain, So before sharing your goal with anyone I check whether their thought process in line with mine and take a decision whether or not share my real estate goal with them, Though I believe in sharing goals with like-minded people because then you may find someone who can support you to reach towards your goal. 

I believe usually for repairs it’s common to multiply $100/ sq ft ( for LA/Los Angeles area) but based on the upgrades he has and it being in Long Beach ( about 20min from LA) and all do u recommend a lower number per sq ft.?

Now a days that is fairly common to expedite things.

I believe usually for repairs it's common to multiply $100/ sq ft ( for LA/Los Angeles area) but based on the upgrades he has and it being in Long Beach ( about 20min from LA) and all do u recommend a lower number per sq ft.?

It's faster, cheaper, more commonly successful, and has way less overhead.If you want to be a mentor, talk to your current principle broker and see how you might be able to help him/her.