I contribute the max I can to qualified accounts (401k, Roth IRA, HSA) for both myself and my wife and still have money left to invest personally.

You should speak to a lender first and see if how much in loans you can qualify for and then compare that amount to the neighborhoods and property types in Los Angeles.

There's are whole streets of duplexes in my target area built like this.Small places like the ones I'm describing, the roof, gutters, and chimney aren't particularly dangerous or complex for a single skilled handyman with Craigslist helpers to replace and maintain very cheaply.

Finding a mechanism, strategy, tools, knowledge, skills, etc is secondary to the emotional piece.

You can shelter some of that if you run your business through certain entities, but in this case, it looks like you've got this one in your own name (because it was supposed to be your home)2) I believe the property has to be in-service as an income generating property for a year before it would qualify for a 1031.

These things suck but tomorrow is another day . these trials  are valuable learning tools and every obstacle in the path can lead to a better understanding and improves your skills .  

I have learned several invaluable skills like marketing, sales, and the power of social media by being involved, but I'm not sure it's worth my time, especially still working full time with a toddler and plans for #2 soon.

I know you can rent mailboxes but based on research it seems a LLC has to be a physical place they could serve legal docs and a rented mailbox does not qualify.

Hi all,Hypothetically if I purchased a rental property on 8/27/17 and sold on 8/27/18; is that considered 366 days of ownership thus qualifying me for long term cap gains?

Here's some other questions to ask in case this helps in any way:Questions for Lenders When do you start using rental income to help me qualify?