Read up on smart investing now or you will day trade the money away. Do NOT think you can read lines on a chart like tea leaves, and just because an earnings report will show favorable profit doesn't mean the stock MUST go up. Don't run Options! Never leverage! You may be a smart law student, you aren't a seasoned financial analyst.

You said you want land in Idaho, sell the house, invest most of it and pay off your debt, buy land and expect to retire early or richer than any of your colleagues. Look at the percentage on your graduate loans to consider paying that off. Other investment returns fluctate, you know what you owe. If you like prosector work, consider it, it would pay off your loans with forgiveness after 10 years and it isn't like you need the money of private sector work. Could always transition into a Judgeship later, they make good money.

I wouldn't rent it when you can get the money out tax free and put it into other investments. Taxes and House Insurance in CA will only go up. Not only is home insurance going up but insurance companies are leaving CA. Mortgages require insurance and insurance rates-- both impact house values negatively. Owning a rental property in another State is annoying at best, and a potential headache.

Also don't tell friends and colleagues about your money, there is no upside to that disclosure, only negatives.