In this contract she could sell it for practically nothing and I still pay her $4,000 the same amount. 

A detached quad consisting of four one bed one bath units will cost significantly more than an infill quad consisting of four one bed one bath units etc..Lastly, there are very few zoning districts in Philadelphia that would allow for a 4 unit building to be constructed in Philadelphia on a parcel that is only 1,000 SF and from a practical standpoint the units will be quite small when you consider the need for open area and common halls/stairs.

Written by attorney investors, it's full of practical advice about the management of investment property, has sample forms that can be edited, and - most importantly - tells you what your primary state laws are and where you can read them.

Theory/paper won't always translate over well to actual practice. 

General Recommendations: Any general recommendations or best practices for someone new to the fixing and flipping scene in Oakland?

And what are some best tips and practices to look out for? 

Short term rentals can be lucrative but come with higher variability and management needs.My Take:It might be beneficial to consider a mixed approach—drop the rent slightly under market value to secure a tenant and stabilize your cash flow, while simultaneously exploring the short term rental market.

He's a stock market guy but the practice works just as ell for RE. 

Networking is always a great practice and you never know who you might meet there and what good information they have to share.

How does anyone find a way out of the scourge of renting with these kinds of business practices by landlords?