So to say it improves returns in any way shape or form is materially untrue.

Again, not saying this is in any way, shape or form indicative of the OP, just saying that in this type of situation it CAN exist. 

If you find a great deal in a single-family house that cash flows you’ll be in good shape, and if you find a great deal on a multi family go for that.

Or are vacationers trending elsewhere for the holiday weekend?

The biggest thing that sticks out to me is, if the property is in good enough shape to qualify for a conventional mortgage, there is a larger pool of potential buyer, so there may not need to be enough spread between purchase and ARV.

Paint was a year old in great shape when she moved in and she was here less than a year.

.* In the absence of similar comps - go back in time to find any similar comps, no matter how long ago and adjust for market trend differences (appreciation, etc), as well as other adjustments as typical (size, bed/bath, condition/quality, location, etc).* Go to nearby market areas/neighborhoods and find reasonably similar duplex sales and adjust for market area/neighborhood differences as required - along with the other adjustments.* Find reasonable 3 or 4 unit (not more than 4, and they can use sfr's, but those are typically not as good for comparison.

(In addition to seeing a trend of not writing new policy for California in general due to risks)https://www.sfchronicle.com/california/article/major-home-in...I will have some carpet in stairs and bedroom because the house already came with new carpet in stairs and bedrooms, the rest have water proof laminate , LVP would be my first choice.I would want to screen and interview the owner and the pet(s). 

Could this be a new trend to open up the marketplace? 

Its in pretty decent shape other than some cleanup and foundation issues.