I could use another set of boots on the ground to check out off-market deals, including taking pictures & videos, and would be happy to share my knowledge and processes with someone like you looking to add value there.Regardless, wish you the best of luck!

Every County is different so I would check with zoning and make sure there would be any restrictions/issues.

Sol,If your credit union is capping you on your loans which is very typical, you need to check out another bank.

The only thing I'd have to double check is when is the sec121 exclusion for the $250k capital gains tax exclusion is applied, but I'm pretty sure its applied after...Capital gains is taxed at the Federal level, and I believe from all the discussions also by California.You could tax loss harvest any other capital assets that might be down, e.g. stocks.I don't advocate the charitable donation for the sake of tax... 

Check statistical data on the specific city/neighborhood - FRED and other city/government websites publish the number of people coming into the city, population density and local news can tell what businesses are coming inHope this helps.

If you want warm spots, check San Diego for beaches, Charleston for charm, or Santa Fe for a unique experience.

Easiest way is to just get on Airbnb and check your competitors.

Will definitely check them out.

I recommend you go ahead and hire a PM.Otherwise, you'll need an application, a way to do background/credit checks, a lease, and a way to manage finances and repair requests.

3) Check out some of the local meetups that you can find in this forum!