We even see some charging 10-12% in one of our markets now.That's not to say 25-30% isn't possible anymore, but it most likely would have to come via a referral where the owner isn't shopping around at all.

You're smart to ask these types of questions so I'm sure you'll avoid making the snap decisions that tend to get many doctors in trouble. 

I cannot see how build two, say, 1200 sq ft houses with two roofs, two foundations, presumable about 25-30% more windows and siding is going to be cheaper a duplex that might have a little extra fireblocking and soundproofing.Now, maybe your GC is thinking that detached homes tend to get higher rent than comparably sized and finished duplexes.  

They tend to take better care of the property.

I was also trying other approaches such as referrals.

Same goes for number of LLCs and what to fund them with, since bear in mind that CA tends to be more cumbersome and expensive to have LLCs than other states.California is generally more cumbersome than other states when it comes to taxes and filings.

Also, air conditioning removes moisture/humidity from the interior airspace, and nearly every home in the Carolinas runs AC during the warm months.Crawlspaces tend to be where the majority of problems occur.

This is because I recommend at least 20% down and the homes tend to cost $500k-$650k for the lower-end budget. 

In my experience people ho have no skin in the game tend to care less about keeping the property up than those that have to work to have it.

I can put you on our referral system where the referrer gets paid whenever we close a deal with the referee.Thank you!