For example, the desire for larger homes with bigger backyards is causing people to increasingly come to the San Fernando Valley from central L.A and for those already in the Valley to trade up in size.

I've been going through Nhan Lam Academy ($20/month) for training - he is based in Northern Virginia, but the methods he teaches work anywhere in the US, really.

What is the best method to refinance a VA loan to make the VA loan eligible for use again?

It will take a bit more creativity or focus on different areas. the Antelope valley could hold potential but then you deal with other potential problems and less chance of grand appreciation.One great new method is utilizing an existing property and building an ADU to rent out.

That will give you a better foundation of what you are in for if you follow their method

Buydown is trading initial cost for the interest rate.If you're planning to hold/live in the property for longer after the point, buydown is the way to go.

Just keep in mind that these structures are more complex and therefore more expensive, so you will be trading $800 tax for a higher cost of setting it all up and possibly some annual compliance costs on top of it.Maybe accept your $800 sacrifice to the Evil Lords of the West Coast as the cost of doing business and focus on increasing your cash flow.

Make sure that they have a good relationship with companies that will refinance the loan for you if you are using a BRRRR method.

Managing expectations is one of the core parts of our trade whether it's with our clients or fellow agents. 

The trade-off for ease of renting and maintenance is less upside for return.