We are not looking to make the most amount we can per item (because there's so much) and are not looking to spend time putting individual items up for sale. 

My thought is trying not to spend a whole lot of cash but getting the best I can for what I do spend.

"Site control" (sourcing a new deal under contract) is typically one leg of the stool--the others are capital and experience (such as rehab & project management, etc.). 

Most people acquire older homes, brag about there cash flow of $300 per month but spend over $2,000 a year on maintenance. 

@Sean Moaref If you were going to live in one of the units there are some regulations for LA rent control that I think are quite advantageous when you plan on living in one of the units. 

Now, my boyfriend and I were originally going to get an apartment together but, I noticed we’ll be spending a lot of money for an apartment that we do not own.

At least the money I’ve been paying them is.Another thing about Hayward is that, if you own five+ rental units (unless they are SFRs) in the city, you fall under rent control.

But look at the origination fee, the appraisal (costs more than an SFR), inspections, etc. and you could spend 10% of the loan amount of those costs.

I understand if one does not want any real estate related related responsibilities, then you cannot control the costs.  

I'm a local HML myself now, but I encourage everyone to develop their own private money in their circles of influence and spend a little time each year putting on a class on how to do it.