I'd also start talking to lenders and agents who have experience with investors and experience with the strategy you're looking to pursue.Best of luck! 

Looking for a Texas lender that can answer some questions or give opinions on doing a cash out refi on a rental property to help pay off personal debts. 

Even if you create a non-CA LLC, if you are managing the business from California, you will likely be deemed to be "doing business" in California and therefore likely subject to CA taxes.

Since we are hard money lenders most of our loan requests come from commercial mortgage brokers.  

I am hosting a lunch&learn Zoom call on Wednesday about rent increases, more info on RPAWI. org - a local non profit REIA.

My problem is a lack of deal flow.I reached out to private lenders in my community.

This team should include professionals like agents, lenders, contractors, and property managers.Lastly, connect with other investors and attend local REI networking groups and meetups.

Also it's just unwise to put any unknown USB into one's computer.Maybe I am being a jerk and should be more willing to help out with non landlord duties? 

Even if you create a non-CA LLC, if you are managing the business from California, you will likely be deemed to be "doing business" in California and therefore likely subject to CA taxes.

learning curve is in commercial lease negotiations and challenges of “island time” contractors and professional services Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?