I'd recommend finding a lender that can seamlessly do both the Hard Money lending and refinancing to make it easier for you. 

If you have some experience this will be easier, but you have to start somewhere.

But for the first few months it seems like it will be easier to manage from our side.

Look up comps in your target markets and see how they compare to each other. 

Thieves will skip over yours and look for an easier target.

I would advise to buy all of them because it will make it alot easier for you to put capex money into exteriors, landscaping, fixing parking lot , fencing , lighting , etc because sometimes the hoa might not be collaborative in my experience.

Online DirectoriesPerforming online searches is quite a bit easier than going to the county clerk or recorder’s office, but you certainly won’t be the first to find out about a pending bank foreclosure.

They are often too complicated for tenants to figure out, they have too many ways to fail, and they are often easier to circumvent than a standard key lock.I use Schlage electronic door locks with a simple numeric keypad.

If you have a strong foundation with capital aside it's easier to stomach.

If you are trying to maximize space you may want to consider convertible sofas and/or one that has a pull out option.As far as material my preference would be a darker neutral color microfiber that would be easier to clean.Possibly most important is looking for one that is commercial grade for durability.