We love Shoreline and surrounding area as well, but it's a bit expensive, and seems like the rent-to-purchase prices may make it difficult to pay a mortgage with and come out ahead, at least in the beginning.

I've found it difficult thus far to find someone who could be a mentor/partner in my area.

In Walnut Creek, would be very difficult to find.

This is really not that difficult and something your PM should be doing before releasing any of the deposit IMO.As far as including the water/sewer in the rent - I find this almost impossible as the bill can vary greatly and is not customary in my area.This is why I am so reluctant to use a PM.

Managing the out of state rentals can be simple or difficult, just what you want to hear right?!!

Why is this so difficult to push through?

With the amount you have in savings it shouldn't be to difficult to qualify for even better rates.

It is a little difficult to find those deals here because we have a very different type of market.

You are in a market that is expensive and difficult to invest in.

Without an income it may be difficult for you to get any sort of bank financing.