It is very common for one employee to not know what the other is doing;2) Fees:- Instead of requiring tenants to pay in one lump sum, they let them pay in chunks (which is very annoying as they will charge you $10 for each chunk payment your tenant make; that means you'll be charged $30-40 more per unit/month if they let them pay in 3-4 chunks);- Every bill they pay for you will cost you $10 (+$20-40 more per unit/month).

When I saw my tax advisor/attorney, he said another option would be to have a separate LLC for each property with a holding company for expenses common to all properties and to make distributions and contributions.

We also send an automated message to them around noon time the day after check-in just to see if they have any questions or need anything, most guests really appreciate us checking in with them, this also avoids the common scenario of guests that have an issue at the property but just choose not to tell you about it, then leave a bad review without giving you a chance to make things right.

I simply am providing you with actual data and common sense so you can learn and start guiding others on the right path.

As for researching the competition, all I have done so far is check common websites that market properties like Zillow, Realtor.com, Apartments.com etc.

Oh well, second guessing the law is common enough.

What are some common pitfalls to avoid as a new real estate investor, especially in the multifamily sector?

(And this ignores seller credits, which are commonly offered to homebuyers during negotiations.)Affording the down payment is an issue for prospective homebuyers, but not the main one.

I assume that you are also going to have common equity. 

Mold is a common complaint from tenants, particularly those trying to exploit you.Mold is everywhere, even in the air we breathe outside every day.