Let someone else buy the fringe areas and improve them first.To be direct, I can't imagine an appraiser using 5-year-old comps.

I’m always looking to improve my process and would be happy to share some insights I’ve gathered on deal evaluation and contractor management.

The industry standard currently is around 70%, but there are some that will go up to 75% or 80%, but you've got to have pristine credit.

Mint did a decent job for me previously, and Credit Karma is less adequate. 

But I also sometimes think owning only 1 property in LA would be less stressful and a more reasonable mortgage payment would improve my quality of life.

Ideally AI could improve the property analytics that shape listing prices, a competitive advantage over other brokers.

But 3) Try multifamily specific brokers, crexi and loopnet, although 2-4 units maybe scarce. 4) A home equity line of credit is a good source of funds however it will generally make your overall monthly payments higher, so unless a deal is very solidly cashflowing, a HELOC may put you into negative cashflow. 7) Typically electric/gas are paid by the tenant - however this isn't true across the board. 

If you co-sign, the loan will consider both your incomes but also both credit scores, so her credit could impact the terms or buying power.

I have no debt, significant equity, good W-2, and excellent credit.

Everything he teaches about personal finances (budgeting, car loans, credit cards, etc.) is spot on.