I know it's tempting to get into real estate but having adequate cash reserves is super important.

Retirement is adequately funded (I contribute 17%, wife has pension).I had about $225k in brokerage, but sold it down to its current $60k to fund an addition on my house, which recently completed. 

Was it something financial, operational, or maybe just human nature showing up in your deal?

People can't afford LA or Santa Clarita so naturally they would keep going.

I wouldn't think too much about Mother Nature.

It's best to discuss your specific situation with an insurance agent to ensure you have adequate protection.

It'd be a great way to get into real estate investing provided you have adequate reserves 

Look at meeting minutes, financials, and tax returns to verify that the HOA is well managed and has adequate reserves.

Has stopped countless scammers - but probably turned off a few good natured people.

Prohibited Transactions: The IRS considers certain transactions prohibited, either by the nature of the transaction itself or who the transaction is with (known as disqualified persons).