The involvement of the coastal commission in developments near the ocean has not helped.  

Goal is good cash flow and not to bank on appreciation so that we can reinvest that cash flow into another property(s) and so on. :) 

I lightly sanded them, stained them, and then covered them with poly.

My goal is to set up a trusting team comprising of property manager(s), agent(s) and handy-man/contractor(s), so that I work with to manage my investments.I would appreciate any recommendations on PM/agents/contractors. 

@Dan Heuschele - I’m wondering if that’s what you were referring to in your post when you were suggesting against coastal San Diego county.

On the other hand, some of the areas with the most beautiful coastal views can have infestations of white priders, or other gangs, you just can't tell unless someone actually KNOWS the area.

Are you going to put your head in the sand," and other insulting dribble---forget this guy and this company. " I think I can help you; in fact I know I can help you."

I was in my late 30’s and wish I’d started earlier.

Is there an ideal time of the year to buy a coastal STR?

I would speak with lender(s) and check their attitude about moving title to one or more LLCs.