Either way, I'm in CA as well (LA) and passive income is my favorite!

My favorite idea that keeps resurfacing is avoiding probate by getting deeds from heirs of deceased owners and then filing a QTA.  

You'd get a few quotes.Submit a loan application with a national bank like a BOA or Chase, then a local credit union and (my personal favorite) a loan originator.

Not my favorite type of investing.

The bonus being a great start to a professional relationship with someone highly respected in her field.My favorite thing about this whole process however, has been getting to know the buyers.

I no longer listen to music--- pod casts all day everyday! 

Regardless, it's best to just start trying.A favorite quote of mine: "You miss a hundred percent of the shots you don't take"  - Wayne Gretzkey.

My favorite niches are suburban condos in King/Snohomish county, for a good balance of cash flow and appreciation potential.  

@Chris Music I agree with you about the hard money, at this point I have only found lenders that require 20% down and I have been trying to find private lenders but its very difficult because I am a newbie.

A good mentor will probably do that.But, the question asked is why do people follow the Pied Piper, it's probably because of the music he plays.