I'm learning all I can and saving up as much as possible in hopes of buying my first house hack! 

I suggest Nevada because of the proximity to CA, landlord friendly, and low property taxes.

Someone still has to cover taxes, insurance, and upkeep during the foreclosure.

Should I still house hack to avoid the capital gains taxes?

They try to desperately tie people leaving to the budget deficit but then have to admit it was more about reduced capital gains taxes and job losses in the tech sector.

security, fencing, a guard dog inside or someone stays there at night $1500carry cost of your loan/tax/insurance$?

By investing, further savings are acquired by being able to reduce one’s taxable income.

But I would also say this could be a great way for you to get more exposure to other investors and properties in your area and by building strong relationships, you may be able to find a cost savings competitive advantage. 

So essentially you will need money for ten percent of the purchase price, the first portion of the rehab, and holding costs to pay the hard money payments monthly and taxes/insurance. 

It will be tax free when it cooks off..