Yes thats - 200-300 pages of financials, letters of reference, pictures of (or interview with) your dog, letters from your employer, bank and current landlord and $500-$2500 in BS fees that you never get back even if they deny you the apartment.  

I am a mechanical engineer, employed full time, with excellent credit score, so I'm thinking a low down payment FHA loan is a good option. 

Depending on your employment status, marital status, etc you may be able to allow any long term capital gains to not be taxable.

I read here that Allure is the recommended brand but it's 3 times more expensive cost close to a hard wood flooring.

Not many people can afford to live in Manhattan, yet the place is the hub of employment (and I wouldn't mind owning an apartment building there).Might be good news for the car industry and the public transportation authorities.Bob

Mine is taken care off as long as I stay with my current employer another four years.

While Airbnb is great, it is like applying for a loan while on self employed (airbnb) or w2 income (regular long term tenants).

have you ever been in sales.. have you ever sold cars... do you know how to qualify present and close do you know how to ask for the order.do you understand the escrow function.. do you realize selling real estate in CA without a license is not legal.. how are you going to get these leads.. if 997 is stretching your budget then your only course of action is bird dog.. talk  pound on doors.. but even that takes time and car and gas money especially in LA..being with limited funds and doing anything real estate related in California is a pretty tall order with a failure rate I suspect at greater than 99%.I think if you want in the industry you should apply and get a job as an assistant to a top producer get PAID to learn .. save your money.. then think about next step.one thing I have seen in my years is starting real estate agents who get on teams work for 3 to 5 years build their confidence and bank account then go out on their own.. many to start their own business in 7 to 10 years.Also if your VERY detailed oriented one other way to be self employed is to start at a mortgage company and learn how to process loans..

The Metroplex proper has mostly tech and other professional type employers plus a bit of heavy industry and defense contractors. 

Not because of discrimination but by the luck of the draw because I run credit reports and verify employment.