I'm active duty military and was stationed overseas but determined to pick up my first true investment property. 

Welcome to BP and beautiful California!

For example: an HVAC installer could charge you as much as $2,000 for a furnace that you could buy directly from the supplier for $500.You need to apprise yourself of the true costs of what you're trying to do, so that you can plan most appropriately for your expenses.

I have bought timber ground in those areas and it took years to resell... just stick to your tried and true methods of buying deep discount.. check DOM for the area and don't over pay.

Has a few threads on true seller financing of MHs which are for the big parks and operators.

Before being able to convert the property from an owner occupied residence to a true rental, you have to reside in the property for a minimum of a year.

Not true.  

The old adage is true you make money when you BUY not when you sell!

Hello my name is Randy,About me:I am 24 years old, I have been a journeyman electrician for 2 years now, i am never at home as i am always working side jobs, or exploring this beautiful city. 

A true hard money lender is loaning on the property, not the individual so if your deal is straight the money should be there.