I have opinions based on details I noticed, but I’m more interested in hearing what decisions others make when approaching a fresh deal.There may be those among us whose goal in real estate is to park cash safely.

A real estate professional is a distinct designation from the IRS and there are certain rules/thresholds to do before you can call yourself a real estate professional for IRS purposes.You may want to factor in all of the above to see what the cost of cost seg will be and what your decreased tax liability will be for 2017 and what your refund will be from carrying back the NOL to 2016/2015.

One thing I've noticed: most investors focus on finding these sellers but drop the ball on follow-up.

I started to notice somethings were mentioned over and over.  

However, if you've already started your preliminary search, you've probably noticed that the quality of neighborhoods can vary a bit within each of those areas. 

This was one of the lower added value in the nation (but there were some areas including a few in southern CA that the ADU decreased the value of the property).  

Noticed your in Scotts Valley,I would look into Watsonville , Salinas or Marina … those won’t be as profitable at Scotts Valley , but the barrier to entry will be less . 

Not the best option, but it gives them the notice they can leave when they are ready.

One thing I’ve noticed in working with investors is that a well-prepared deal package can make or break an approval.

I hope and pray the permit gets approved and that they don't NOTICE that I'll ask for the inspection moments AFTER the permit has been approved.Because we have no concrete for the driveways, I can't order sod.