But I really see this as just business-  I want the best market I can get into. 

Might want to tuck that (and your TWO years of experience) back in.I guess if you consider doing 80% MORE investor business in 2024 than I did in 2023 "slow", okay then... ha ha ha.But hey - if people like you insist on being a complete jerk here, showing everyone exactly who they are, as Mel Robbins says, I'll "Let them".Who are you, again? 

I live in Boston, but I was advised to start my real estate business elsewhere as Boston is very competitive.

One thing to consider is that in terms of wealth building and Kiyosaki's Cashflow Quadrant, owing a rental and doing work yourself is putting you in the self-employed quadrant, not Business Owner or Investor.I think there are a lot of factors stacked against California for long term rentals, and I think you know it too! 

Hey Stephen, I know this was a while ago, but are you still in the business?

Throughout my career, I have consistently conducted business with integrity, transparency, and the utmost professionalism.

We have been in Business since 2000, survived the 2008 collapse.

Ive tried googling and have seen the business on linked in and other websites.

I don't really need to know much else about someone - if they can't pass this test, why should I believe that they will be able to run a business that will generate cash?

A formal business built on this seems overkill as you’re essentially paying someone for a service that already has standard model.If you and the parnter have distinct business tasks/abilities (i.e. not what you would hire an agent or contractor for), such as off-market lead generation, that’s a different discussion.