But I’d say the key to success is building a reliable team on the ground.

Quote from @Jordan Ryan: Joe Fairless - Best Ever Apartment Syndication Book, A-Z with everything you could possibly think of about starting and running a successful syndication.  

@Jackson Pudlo you'll have a better chance of success managing a unit right next door and learn a lot.Versus...Buying a rental in a few years that not near you.One of the biggest mistakes newbie investors make is not paying enough attention to their rentals because they are too busy with family & work.You really won't be able to ignore a rental next door to you!

I have had decent success challenging appraisals and getting improved results.  

I’d also love to hear your predictions for how the real estate financing landscape might shift this year and how you plan to position yourself for success.

After reading Brandon and Brian's book, The Multifamily Millionaire, Volume II: Create Generational Wealth by Investing in Large Multifamily Real Estate, I'm a bit puzzled as to if the GP's must have real estate experience, or if someone can connect enough professionals/companies on their team to execute successful investments.

You'll need to really look at yourself and understand what you do well and enjoy, at the end of the day if you enjoy what you do you'll have more drive be successful everyday. 

Sometimes you get lucky.You could even bring up the subject of seller financing (search online for ideas of how to structure a seller financed offer), and make sure a competent real estate attorney helps write the offer documents (if it gets that far). 

Meeting critical dates is the key to nailing a successful closing.

—will be key to success!!