And neither will Redfin, each will charge what they want as long as a consumer is willing to pay it.

So while I can't claim to speak for every financial institution out there, it's a very broad survey, finding an option not contained there might involve making quite a few phone calls.When I see 30 year fixed, 30 year amortization, 30 year maturity (basically, identical terms to a consumer-friendly kid-gloves home loan), which does in fact pop up if I specifically search for it, it's almost always at a rather high interest rate, and the borrower doesn't opt for it.

Each has its own advantages and challenges, and success depends more on the specific property, location, and your management approach.The "forever apartment" concept rarely exists.

I have been here forever. 

This area where your home is has been vacant fields forever.

However it doesn't change the fact your name will be forever be listed on a docket and its one more thing you have to explain to banks, financing companies, employers etc.

I have a management firm that has filed the necessary paperwork and received a judgment, but it is apparently a time consuming process to then get a writ of restitution and then to schedule the sheriff to evict.

On another note, you have some fairly restrictive laws regarding private lending, consumer protection (seller financing to an owner occupant) and loan servicing in CA state so make sure you are allowed to do this on your own and understand the licensure requirements to lend, broker loans, and service them as well.

And I taught math forever in secondary and post secondary settings so I know the number side of things too.

See what you're comfortable with and then you just gotta commit to narrowing yourself to 1 or 2 markets or you'll be in decision paralysis forever!