After 12-18 months we plan to refi with bank financing, we are just not in a position we can do that quite yet.

In terms of timeline, don't plan for it to be a fast process, your rockstar local loan officer will not be processing the assumption, it'll be a group of call center people reading scripts from a computer screen.

If you are just starting out and learning the business , Avail is a great starter platform for single family homes. 

I've just done the work myself: get a judgment, file to have wages garnished, place liens on any property they may own (I've had some people come up as being on joint title on a property).Some people will sent up a payment plan as soon as the sheriff shows up to serve them with papers because they're so embarrassed!

I already have an agent but if anyone is able to help with the search it would be greatly appreciated.In regards to location, I would like to stay in Santa Monica, or somewhere close and the unit needs to have at least one bedroom.Thank you in advance,ySkylerAloha Skyler,  are you planning to BRRRR, House Hack, or do Forced Equity/Appreciation? 

Devin,Just a warning about checkbook IRAs: Self Dealing Activities will get your entire IRA disallowed and you will have to pay the tax on all your money.Self Dealing Activities are frighteningly easy to do.Do a Copilot search for "Problems with checkbook IRA plans."

I plan on doing long distance investing since I’ll be deploying to Japan soon! 

My firm also manages properties for our clients and although its a small portion of our business, its a great way for us to stay involved with clients to better understand & anticipate their needs. 

My plan is to use a first-time buyer's loan program, live in the property for a year, and then turn it into a rental property.

This separation helps in maintaining clear financial records and simplifies tax reporting and financial management.Setting up an escrow account specifically for rental income within your LLC can offer several benefits:Financial Clarity: It separates rent payments from other operational expenses, making it easier to track income and expenses related to the rental property.Legal and Compliance: Helps in demonstrating that rental income is kept distinct from personal or other business funds, which can be important for legal and tax compliance purposes.Tenant Transparency: It provides transparency to tenants and other stakeholders regarding where rental payments are deposited and how they are managed.While it may not be a legal requirement in all cases, maintaining an escrow account specifically for rental income is a prudent practice that many experienced investors and landlords follow.