I'll take these into consideration as things move forward (sloooowly). 

The general eligibility criteria for a VA Renovation Loan mirror the standard VA loan, but it does require extra steps because it involves quotes and work from a contractor registered with the VA.Another consideration is that borrowers must utilize the VA loan for a primary residence. 

However, managing a short term rental is a lot more work than owning stocks and if you have a bunch of them it can turn into another job.Long term rentals are considerably less work than STRs but offer a lower return. 

I think rich dad poor dad brain washed me here's a quote: ''Traditionally, when housing prices rise, so do home equity loans.

The LLC comes into play later, also still a risk on having the loan recalled or adjusted once interest rates rise in a few years.If you're thinking about the LLC for passthrough income... you still might as well buy first.

With respect, your house is saddled with a $160/month rental payment to the utility which in CA is rising at at least 5% annually.

Even if you don't refinance in a couple years, your investment income will rise with the tide of inflation but the mortgage payment will stay the same!

So, that tax savings might be a worthwhile consideration.

My criteria now that I have been investing for a while now is that im looking for growth in jobs, population, job diversification, landlord friendly, business friendly, rising market and familiarity in that location.

Pretty decent margin if you ask me :)Ken I hear what you are saying Sir and you have awesome valid points that I never even took into consideration.