Maximize your W2 earnings, get a 2nd job, swallow your pride and live at home (if that's an option), don't spend a dime on anything if it is not food, housing, or transportation, and pile up money. 

Investment Info:Small multi-family (2-4 units) private money loan investment in Los Angeles.

I could still see trash and some of their personal property still outside. 

For me, personally, it's areas that are landlord basic to friendly, strong industry growth or potential growth, and personally I trade/buy/invest in houses that I see inventory pick up but the fundamentals stick meaning it's a great area.

Last year I received a call from a man renting what used to be my personal home, explaining to me that he didn't have the money for rent, wouldn't anytime soon because of a job loss, and asked me if we could barter rent, for sex with his wife.

My underwriting had me around break-even... not a killer deal by any means but between the low money down, rent savings,  principle paydown, and most importantly the experience...

Now my lender are debating if I have to rebuild the structure completely with the insurance money.

But there are many different personal factors that you would want to consider, which may make it difficult to get helpful answers on here

Only sell when you can put the money in an investment with a better rate of return, or if it moves you closer to your goals.The house is worth $385,000 and rents for $2,200.

Long term does not make much money, but less work.