My MLS usually has all the documents online like the property disclosure, rent rolls, deeds and more if the listing agent has done their job right.

But that's no guarantee.And, you can follow all good screening procedures, professionally run your business, and don't get too cozy with your neighbor/tenant.After that, roll the dice. 

It would be very easy to roll up on a contractor who knows she doesnt know, who will hype that thing double of what it should be or more.

Btw, I like your creative thinking, and look forward to hearing details of your success as the years roll by. 

We have our own capital to put up but nothing like that.Hoping this goes out to some other investors and we could get the ball rolling on something.

the book in the bp bookstore. i did the rookie boot camp 2y ago that i imagine this book is kind of based around, and one of the first steps was picking your strategy. the tough part is: THEY ALL WORK. but they all require different skill sets, different amounts of time, and will create a different-looking life for you once the ball is rolling. you have to lay out what skills you have, what you do and don't like doing, how much time you have, and what your vision is for your investor-life 5y down the line, and choose the strategy that aligns best with those things. 

Private lenders are a roll of a die.What happens if you do not receive a 1098?

My plan is to steadily acquire smaller multifamily properties and eventually roll them into larger multifamily deals, which is a natural fit, given my professional background.

If you have reached a level of comfort and are no longer focused on growth, then by all means keep that debt snowball rolling.

Yes, they ask for Rent Rolls, Bank Account balances, etc.