Refi’ing wasn’t my intention initially tbh, but I haven’t had my current primary mortgage that long (refi’d with rocket mortgage last July), so I’m not opposed if the numbers work out.I’m still shopping around, though.

This could get you 6-8 units if you shop patiently which is a great starting point.Please do not send any money off to companies that advertise real estate "syndications" online.

Don't forget to shop around!

While shopping for a small multi-family building (3 or 4 units), I would like to get an inspection of the building to get an estimate of repair costs if any problems are found (foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, heating). 

Happy to meet up and talk shop with you!

Additionally, getting in with a local broker helps as they can shop around for you.Umbrella insurance is pretty cheap to add on in my experience, so I think it’s worth it.

We are excited about the news for phase II of Lee + White (among some other coffee shops and restaurants coming to the area) and the Microsoft campus coming to the upper west side, just 3 miles away.

From there look at other factors like what is the alternative to renting at the subject property, is it close to shopping or major employment centers, parks etc..?

You need to contact the governing body that has jurisdiction over the zoning laws for either the incorporated or unincorporated of the county or city for the plot you are interested in building on.  

What you are describing (i.e. expanding search area to 1-2 mile radius) sounds like "shopping for higher priced sales" as opposed to looking for recent similar sales in a similar market area.