I explain how the procedure works, the benefits and the disadvantages of a fast cash sale.

But I don't know the particulars and advantages/disadvantages for those options in regards to using it on a rental property, especially during this time with the pandemic and all the new lender requirements.

Is there any advantage/disadvantage to each? 

The disadvantage to the 2-4 units are there are not as many out there for purchase, but with a little patience one will come along that the numbers work and it is a good purchase.That leads me into the next thing you need to look at...

I'm ready to reach out and start interviewing some local agents.But I'm wondering are there advantages/disadvantages to working with a smaller/larger agency?

@Charles Carillo When you say that a smaller broker might not know how to value a larger sized property than they typically work with, wouldn't that be a disadvantage for me? 

If you only did 1-2 deals per year it would be more of a disadvantage in my opinion.

203k Benefits to Buyers/Borrowers (not all inclusive) Renovate home with little/no additional out-of-pocket expenseLow down payment (3.5%)Combine purchase/refinance + rehab funds into one low-interest, tax-deductible mortgage which is based on the improved appraised valueInclude mortgage payments into 203k if home is not livable during renovationsSubmit a strong purchase offer if presented properly to sellerBuyers face less competition from other buyers to purchase fixer-uppers, foreclosures or older homes that are outdatedBetter opportunities for "good deals" on home purchasesAbility to purchase properties that may not meet FHA standards and complete the repairs/improvements AFTER the home is purchased.Select from a larger selection of properties for sale (in any condition), including condos, townhouses, mixed-us, multi-family, single-family dwellings and those that do not currently meet FHA standardsWhen offer is presented properly to seller, 203k offers may be advantageous in a competing offer situation as the seller does not have to fix-up or repair the property but instead allow the buyer to include these items into their 203k mortgage and complete the improvements after closing using the buyer's own style and design.203k Benefits to Home Owners & Sellers (not all inclusive)Market property to more buyersAllow buyers the opportunity to renovate, upgrade or improve to suit their tastes and preferencesNo need to settle for low-ball cash offersCurrent condition of property not required to meet FHA's property standardsBuyer is permitted to correct any property deficiencies after close of escrowNo more inspection concernsAbsolutely no repairs are required prior to close of escrowSeller not responsible for cost of repairs/improvementsTransaction will close with property in "AS-IS conditionClosing occurs in 45 days203k Benefits to Realtors® & Lenders (not all inclusive)Increase income by selling more homes and originating more loansRaise real estate values by improving homes and neighborhoodsDecrease foreclosure inventoryHelp buyers who previously could not buy homesHelp seller/owners with properties in outdated or fix-up conditionSpur economic growth by creating job opportunities for the construction/remodeling industryPromote an under-utilized niche program that not many Realtors® or Lenders understandRevitalize your community203k Disadvantages (not all inclusive) upfont MIPMI for life of loanSupplemental origination feeInspection feesTitle update feesmore complexmore moving partshigher interest ratepossible longer closing timeBut working with the right 203k Lender, a contractor with education/experience with the 203k, such as a Certified 203k Contractor, the benefits can definitely outweigh the disadvantages.

Thoughts on advantages and disadvantages of using the Loan center in which your current mortgage is through versus another loan center to pursue refinancing?

There will definitely be some overlap between what you learn in school and your personal investments, but you won't be at a disadvantage in your personal investments if you don't have the degree.To me, if you (1) definitely want to be in real estate and (2) need to build a career for financial stability, it makes a lot of sense.Happy to answer any questions.