You should connect with an agent that would have a better idea of what the new construction price per sqft would be in your area, since there is so much variability.

Every level of government is so greedy and desperate for every dollar they can squeeze out of the economy.

It is so common for people just to say "I need to improve my score" or "pay off debt" without context of how you got in that position.

The motivation is so much higher.That’s what I hear.

This is so true.

But there is so dang much inventory, I just can't bring myself to the $600k/$700k+ they seem to all want.

The IRS language is so very vague in some areas.  

Can you explain a little more about why California is so bad?

My personal opinion is that there is so much talk about cash flow that newbies get scared to make any moves at all and head back to their cubicles with their tails between their legs. 

So you and your broker, who is going to make you pay, get all those expenses and maybe a lawsuit or a license complaint at your state board.There is so much opportunity out there to list legitimate deals, so go after those.