So if the OP wants MORE immediate cash flow then it may well be best to look in other markets/property types where properties are LESS desirable as evidenced by their lower prices. compared to rents but he could be losing profitability in LA by chasing some short term number.

Our desire is not to “get rich,” but to enable myself to work less sooner so we can live a more “simple life.”

The real estate agent said that the lot I was interested in was in the good area, while the cheaper lots are in a not so desirable area.

This takes some preparation and research, as well as a built up self-confidence, in order to achieve the desired result.

Obviously these would be unique to each market and would depend highly on the tenant screening process.

As someone who has lived in Florida for over 20 years I didn't think this winter was very cold at all, certainly not cold enough to cement in anyones mind the need or desire for a fireplace, and definitely not a wood burning one at that.

I think that would be a unique approach, if you could wait it out and play the monopoly board for a while.

I love doing deals and currently have a hard time seeing a full retirement ever happening.I don't have ( or plan to have ) kids so there is no strong desire to leave a fiscal legacy behind.

Soft costs include time and stress and risk.Some tenants stay because they have a fantastic landlord and some move because of a landlord who's less than desirable.

I think part if it is my desire to walk away from a career where I am a licensed professional (I'm a registered nurse) to do something not so "professional".