Best Starter Markets: For investors just starting, which cities tend to have good entry-level opportunities for multi-family units but aren’t too saturated or risky?

It's most beneficial if you have multiple properties or plan to scale.This would be more for operational efficiency at your level.

Going to the next level the difference in rate of return from appreciation at 80% LTV vs 0% LTV is 5x.  

And how do you usually assess the level of risk in situations where the borrower might not have as much at stake?

Most cost segregation study firms operate at a national level where they will send a professional to your property to generate the report.

Decide on things like kitchen use, bathroom schedules, and noise levels early.

There is a level of participate required when you buy a business and a piece of property.While it always depends, on average, acquiring a business will normally require more work.

I’ve had two in the past five months that are at the 2% level.

It's understandable that you're frustrated and disappointed with the level of service you've received, especially considering the financial impact it has had on you.It sounds like you've made several attempts to reach out to the company, including contacting the VP, but have not received a response.

It also requires gaining a level of sophistication and knowledge that not everyone has the time, inclination or ability to do.