You don't want to sound like a robot, but it's a good starting point so you're not saying "uhh" or have awkward pauses on the phone.Here are a few points I'd emphasize:Start by asking the seller if this is a good time to talk after a brief introduction. 

The drawbacks: Kitchen is 'quirky' meaning it is not conventional, stove placement is not to code, dishwasher placement is awkward and away from the sink, and kitchen just seems overall 'tight' in the photos.

Next, the cooktop in the kitchen may also be a bit awkward for taller people to use - particularly the left burner.

Working on a property over in East Riverside (78741) and meets all the criteria for an ADU build but its difficult to stay within the dwelling building lines in a way that isn't awkwardly placed in the yard. 

I blasted through the awkwardness and sent each of them a text like this:"Hey _______!

It'll just sour my relationship with them and make things awkward.  

First of all, I wouldn't start the relationship out with dishonesty- whether you tell them or not, they'll probably find out you are the owner and that will be way more awkward than any other conversation you have, so be honest from the start. 

It might be better, but consider the use of space that you have.The layout in general seems a bit awkward, but moving plumbing can get expensive. 

I got the impression they'd lived there for a few months under those awkward conditions! 

Hi Ben-Congratulations on getting started and great question.Personally, I think it is better to cut your teeth with single-family before scaling with multi-family.Additionally, I recommend using a property management company to handle the leases and tenant issues even if you rent rooms out in a single-family rental.The reason for this is they will know local and federal housing laws and keep you out of the weeds and out of trouble.Additionally, it provides a shied from awkward moments in the house or with a tenant over unpaid rent or difficult behavior.