This is huge because more people moving in means increased demand for housing, which is great for rental properties.Low Entry Price Points: The barrier to entry is still quite low compared to other cities, meaning you can get in with a lower capital investment and still have the potential for solid cash flow.

They make things way too difficult compared to a simpler, DSCR solution.The type of lender also plays a large role here. 

One idea I have is to "shadow" a real estate investor (although I am not entirely sure how to go about asking for / finding this kind of opportunity), but I am wondering if anyone has insight into other ways to gain a comparable level of experience.If anyone has insight into any or all of these topics, I would greatly appreciate the feedback.

I have a friend who also invested with this guy and she's received some small payments irregularly, but a small % compared of what she invested.I'll follow up on the items you mentioned to take action on, I appreciate the input!

I would offer 90% of the market value. if he sells it you with no agents he is saving 6%~ on real estate agent commission and the other 4% is a convenience fee in that he dos not have to endure showings etc. and you will get better pricing on a non-owner occupied property if you put down 25% is compared to 20%.  

You need comparable sales and there are typically not a large number of 4 plex in close proximity.

I also look at comparable properties (comps) to estimate the property's value after repairs.I currently don’t have a real estate agent.

I have used Propstream and like it, but haven’t compared with others.  

My thoughts- Pull comparables for other properties that have sold across from multi-families in the area. 

Be competitive in what you list your property for rent for if you want to get it filled quicker (about 10% below market rent or whatever else is up for rent nearby but you still also need to make sure the unit looks good/relatively updated when comparing to the others for rent - I look at what is on Zillow.