Advice on approaching existing tenants for issues about MF prpty

[Venkatesh Katari]

Hi BP! I am exploring the option of buying a 4plex. It will be an OOS investment and I am flying into the area next week. This is my first REI ever and I'll be going through traditional financing route (bank/lender with 20% down) I want to make sure I get all the information necessary before I put in an offer. I went through BP post and found a checklist https://theresabradleybanta.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Checklist-Before-You-Offer.pdf

Parallelly  I want to approach existing tenants and want to ask about issues with the property like 

- existing repairs  

- recent inspections 

- soundproofing

- any issues with HVAC, electricity, and plumbing 

- also about an existing landlord 

- their current rent and lease agreements. ( just for a reference as I'll be requesting Schedule E or 1065 form from the existing owner)  

Since I'll be knocking on their doors and asking them, I might be shunned away or not welcomed, so I was wondering if there any tips you all can share which would help me approach the tenants 

Would offering them a chipotle or subway gift card for 15 mins of their time, a good idea?? 

[Marcus Auerbach]

Bad idea, it set's the wrong tone it's just not how professionals work. It's great that you want to be thorough and have a plan for when you get there, but you should lean on your agent (hopefullt a good one) and your home inspector (hopefully also a good one) to make sure you know what you are buying. Talking to tenant's will give you 90% useless information and potentially nothing about what you really want to know.