I have not had a W2 in decades and am able to get financing just fine.Next there are reasonable opportunities everywhere, including LA.

For the painting, you can deduct it along with other furnishings and decorations that you've included in the STR to make it ready and available for tenants.

Any creative terms I can include in the appraisal contingency?

Also, there's a process which will cost money to put a mobile home on top of the lot including movings costs, hook ups, set-up fees, etc. 

This was a question I asked when I my interest was peaked year ago.A great book I would reccomend, available on audible you can listen to...The Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and low) Money Down.It will lay out many of the strategies that beginners and even successful investors utilize to invest in real estate.A popular strategy of many of investors involves investing with OPM (Other Peoples Money), myself included.

When we moved we kept the house and have been renting it for a little over a year - $225/mo cash flow (not including maintenance).

I also have a Rolodex of reputable industry contacts including, closing attorneys, general contractors, inspectors, etc.I would love to set up a time to meet and chat about your goals and develop a plan of action!

They would rather have cash flow paying them more money over time than a lump sum, this could include a higher purchase price.3.

There are many resources available, including books, podcasts, online courses, and forums like BiggerPockets.Define Your Goals.Network with other real estate investors, professionals, and experts in the field.

Syndication offers several benefits, including diversification, access to professional management, the ability to passively invest and the opportunity to participate in larger deals with potentially higher returns.That said, it's crucial for investors to conduct thorough due diligence, carefully evaluate the track record and reputation of syndicators, and assess the risk-return profile of each investment opportunity.