Since it’s a new build, I was able to negotiate some great perks, like a 5.875% interest rate, no closing costs, a fridge, blinds, and even a backyard firepit.Pros:Good school districtLow interest rateMinimal CapEx and repairs (because it’s a new build)Low insuranceHigh-quality tenants (due to the school district and being a new build)Cons:Lots of new builds in the area, which could drive down prices and increase vacanciesThe Numbers:Price: $290KInterest Rate: 5.875%Down Payment: 25%Monthly Mortgage + Insurance + Taxes + HOA: $1,480 (I got really low insurance since it’s a new build and Alabama’s property taxes are low)Property Management: 10%Rent: $1,800 (this is under market because I wanted to rent it quickly—most units in the area were sitting vacant for 100+ days.

Mortgage lenders will qualify you for a higher purchase amount for multis than they would on a single, because they will count the rent you will be making on the other units as additional qualifying income for your loan application.

It seems like location would be especially critical with pad-split (and similar systems), but I’d love to hear your thoughts on what to watch out for in terms of zoning, safety, or demand.Also, I’ve traditionally rented out units the regular way, so I’m curious how screening tenants works for you with the pad-split (and similar) model.

Then we keep the accounting straight via Quickbooks with each unit a different Class.

The best way to do this is to renovate a unit or two to the specifications to bring it up to market.  

In Jersey City, it doesn't kick-in until 4-units - so for the smaller multis or single-units it is not a problem.

Since your an estimator are the materials and labor based on facts (i.e. hard costs a labor units) or a guess.Nothing personal but I wouldn't consider anything you wrote there, if I was buying I'd do my own estimate/SOW. 

I believe I can do this with the upstairs rented out at $1,650 a month and $1,750 for the main floor unit. 3bed 2bath down and 3bed 1bath up.

I understand this is not a requirement, but I have never received a damaged unit from an inherited tenant or any legal issues.

Birmingham’s market is diverse, with various areas offering different levels of potential and risk, so getting boots on the ground can be one of the best investments you make in terms of time and money.I’d be happy to connect and share more about what I’ve learned from my experience managing properties in this market.