However, after running the numbers accounting for insurance, PMI, taxes, vacancy, capX, property manager, etc. the property is estimated -1.85% cash on cash return (-$600/mo) once I fully rent the property.

A conventional loan under an LLC provides liability protection and easier rental management but requires a higher down payment (20-25%) and stricter lending terms, which can reduce cash-on-cash returns.

The syndicator refuses to give me updates and does not return emails.

This significantly lowers the cost per door and improves your return on investment.Scalability: A three-story walk-up design allows you to maximize your build cost and land use, just like most professional apartment developers do.Control with New Construction: Starting with a new build ensures fewer risks, as you’ll have control over the property’s condition and avoid surprises from existing structures.Pro Tip: If you do go with an existing property, make sure to thoroughly vet the deal to avoid hidden costs and issues.For first-time investors, multifamily new construction is often the best way to scale quickly, reduce costs per unit, and build a sustainable rental portfolio.

For savvy investors, the key to keeping more of your hard-earned returns lies in strategic planning and leveraging the right tools to minimize tax liability.Whether you're looking to reinvest in another property, take advantage of depreciation, or explore unique tax-deferral opportunities, there are powerful strategies available to help you reduce your tax burden and maximize your financial outcomes.

There certain areas in town that you can have that return but you have to buy really deep and not been afraid of rehabs

FYI, the golden visa here in Portugal does not include a citizenship/passport that takes 5+1 years, why did Clayton & Natalie Morris recently leave Portugal and return to the states?

Pictures in case helpful: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17QCEJmkm4IptwZTC7amR...If your return-on-investment numbers are that tight you shouldn’t be in the house. 

And they want to see much higher projected returns (which can only happen with a different structure).

Returns look good on paper but the kind of tenants those homes will attract will eliminate your cash flow.Invest carefully.