I can't get the sense for the cost of their "Stage 2" service and they won't disclose it.

Depends on what you have in the deal and what it cost IMHO.$200 mo on a $150k house is ok I guess.... 

For me the area I was concerned with was estimating costs.

They get a higher return since they are covering housing cost, have the $250k per spouse primary residence deduction in gains, is a savings account, higher leverage position, lower interest rate possible, will pay more premium for location, etc.House might be overpriced for REITs but not for home owners.  

If any damage arises from her negligence she will be getting the bills for damages, plus costs of collecting which you bill as well as your attorney in addition to the termination of her lease.

If you are going to do a HELOC then you must understand the cost of using those funds.  

If you buy for $110k you can finance $88k if you come out of pocket for the $22k down payment plus closing costs. 

Operationally, it's easier in multifamily and you'll have cost-saving opportunities as well when it comes to certain expenses.

Centralize your back office / use remote employees / VA where appropriate to cut costs and improve service levels / responsiveness.  5.

Additionally you can do a cost segregation study and get a lot of depreciation benefits to offset the rental income (and potentially other income).