Given appreciation is typically where you are making most of your return in any real estate, having this additional appreciation helps create much higher returns.Additionally, my single family tenants, typically stay a couple years longer than my duplex tenants.  

No, lenders typically don’t require that.

If you're planning to use an FHA loan or another owner-occupant loan, there are typically rules about tenant occupancy.

Typically they tend to cash flow well so a 4 unit might hit those 1% rule.I'd also highly recommend local real estate meetups, as you'll get local insights

I have made a lot of money in RE and negative cash flow is not a criteria that i typically ponder.  

I have found it is better to use a Broker if possible so they can shop companies, and shop every year vs using a captive agent that can typically only sell their company policies.While it is good to shop, not always good to go with the lowest possible provider on insurance. 

@Ash Gowda - typically a 1.3-1.35 dscr.  5/7/10 (all dependent upon the lease term and re-ups); Rates fluctuate but for now from low to high 6's fixed.

Typically in commercial leases there is a non-compete clause.

@Elisha JohnstonFrom my experience, San Antonio is a great market for cash flow, with entry-level homes typically ranging from $200K to $250K and steady appreciation around 3-5% annually.

We typically do not lock our cars.