Either way, your numbers will motivate me through this months round of hand written letters.

I'm in Orange County, CA and my understanding is that it's very difficult to qualify for 3-4 unit properties with an FHA loan given prices in the area.The way I see it, the best way to achieve the result I'm looking for is to buy a 2-3 br home + ADU, or to buy a duplex with a 2-3 br unit + studio unit.

I think the seller would be extra motivated to work with you. 

However, motivated clients are still active and pushing forward to hit their goals.Before the pandemic, the biggest challenge was ACTION.

If so, then by doing the work yourself, you're essentially creating a $20-30/hour job for yourself.Does creating a $20-30 job for yourself achieve your goals? 

1) It depends on what you want to achieve.

If I find one of my driving for dollars leads or motivated sellers is upside down, but I am only looking to wholesale right now, what are my options?  

Once I know the person is motivated and ready to sell, I make the decision on whether to rehab it or wholesale it.

I could see it as good motivation to budget, but would personally focus on paying down something like a higher rate/risk rental/commercial loan vs my own home at 3.375%.  

Simple fix is to really be motivated, find a neighbourhood you like, get out and either door knock, send flyers and keep calling.