Instead of using the funds from that bank account I use a service like real open that will convert cryptocurrency to wire transfer from a 3rd party company account. 

Hi Anthony-You asked about the best ways to find off-market deals for your in-laws to buy and move into and you are focussed on the Santa Barbara, CA area which I have been to and it is gorgeous.It kind of reminds me of an Ann Arbor on the ocean. :)Anyway, I like your strategy of driving and looking for houses in need of repair and sending handwritten letters and contacting rentals for the reasons you gave.

Even if you are focussing on appreciation, having a property that cash flows will help when the expensive surprise problems happen.Can't stress enough to take your time, learn as much as you can, and be cautious with your first investments (but try not to get analysis paralysis).

I am guessing stricter privacy laws can make this difficult.

Well it looks like non-profits are exempt....So I suppose Dope Traffickers will just buy an ongoing concern non profit and operate that with ownership as an IBC (International Business Corporation) in some privacy haven, or Russia, or Yemin or somewhere (if those places have privacy laws???)

Kind of reminds me of the old ranch style, with a bit more privacy and access.

In 30+ years we've been sued 1x (legal blackmail over a tenant's drunken trip/fall) which the insurance company settled for $1,500.00).We've been using some privacy tactics to keep our names off the county recorder and the target off our backs.Further, we review our insurance coverage and premium annually, just to keep on top of any changes.As with all insurance, it seems to be a waste of money... until you NEED it!

@Nathan Deutsch Welcome TO BiggerPockets If you are not comfy with privacy issues while house hackingyou can try  a  FHA loan or start with a partnership to buy a STR etc

Currently there’s nothing about cryptocurrency on the site."

This amounts to lost opportunity because if you had purchased RE, at the closing it can start producing return. 5) ADUs detract from the existing structure whether this is privacy, a garage, or just yard space. 6) this is related to number 1, but there are many more buyers looking to purchase homes for their family than there are RE investors looking to purchase small unit count properties.