If there is a return missing, that alone could be the problem and a new control board or even a new system would not solve that.

You have quite a dilemma. 

. - good to hear other investors are doing the LED thing, I’ve done the same, though management is a bit resistant and doesn’t necessarily share the vision.As far as LED globes- search “LED globe filament” on Amazon, you’ll get plenty of options to solve that micro-issue.

Renters will not always be keen to solving their own problems, even when it’s something as simple as a pilot light.

If that doesn't come out to the area Cap rate, the numbers are off.You should have determined your asking price by rearranging that formula to solve for the asking price.

I want to know how a pragmatic, numbers-driven investor can gain expertise, or find experts, to turn around my property evaluations and offers in days, not weeks.

I am caught in a predicament and am looking for ways to solve it.

The reason for asking this is because i feel auctioned properties can be flipped for a good profit but they require cash to bid and HELOC solves that. 

This is a way to solve the conflict.

There are tons of other California or other high expense market investors who have ran into the same dilemma as you.