Also in many areas prices are very high.

You can buy a set of five for under $300, subscription for the recording software is $10 a month, then the cost of WiFi or hotspot.If you've already had a couple break-ins, you are obviously in a high-crime area.

If one has high living expenses, cash flow doesn't mean much and I definitely understand going for appreciation first.

Here are some indicators to help you assess a buyer's seriousness:Questions: Serious buyers will ask detailed questions about the property, such as maintenance costs, neighborhood amenities, and property taxesStrong Offer: If a buyer makes a strong offer quickly, it often indicates a high level of interest and intent to purchasePrivate Buyers: If approached by a private buyer, ensure they provide a Letter of Intent (LOI) and proof of funds.  

Risk entails everything from lawsuits to lack of diversity in investments to low rates of return to high exposure to vacancy (more units theoretically lowers vacancy exposure).

It is somewhat complex to try to explain on a forum, but at a high level, you (aka GP) and your family member (aka LP) would agree on how much the 2 of you would put in for the amount of equity needed (usually expressed as a %).

If I create a debt fund that offers 9% interest on first lien notes with a 5-7 year payout, would that be attractive to high net worth investors?

high prices have made properties expensive and high rates have made money expensive. 

, whether there's a high water table that encroaches on any underground utilities or foundations (and does that water table have significant seasonal water level variations), encroachments by roads or other improvements on your property, limitations imposed by easements or rights of way, etc.

I'd highly recommend house hacking in your local market since you're in one of the highest cost of living areas in the US, especially if you're renting currently and planning on staying in the area for 5-10 years.It sounds sexy to go out and invest out of state for your first property.