We are having difficulty in finding the best financing structure to get the project to the finish line.

You will need some skin in the game.

 - I'm sure you will be successful ... my advice was intended to reduce the difficulty of your journey .... to put it bluntly, without employment you will have an uphill battle acquiring property - A job makes that task EASY (maybe your wife has a job) .... sacrifice your "lifestyle" for a few years and then live however you want when you no longer need any income beyond your investment income - for me that was a 4-5 year processOn the multi-family, I say if you like it buy it --- As for the specific numbers on the 4plex....

In this market adding properties is difficult; I am finding MF is way over priced and not enough CF, at least not for me.

I've found it immensely helpful, especially when you consider the difficulty of a tenant contacting you outside the U.S., the ease for a property manager to do a visual inspection, their knowledge of local contacts, etc. 

I believe what you need is an equity partner will they take a huge amount of equity that depends on how long you have been in the game, can you put any skin in the game.

Upper Kensington comparing to "rest" Kensington and Philly generalI have difficulty finding a tenant to an Upper Kensington home that is well maintained (new wood floor etc) and furnished.

@Sean DawsonIf your thinking about doing it in Columbus it might be difficult given the market conditions..I think in most cases besides eating capital gains seller would prefer a lump sum of cash at closing..Sellers would consider a take back note if they have difficulty selling the property, hiding a deficiency or need to unload it quick..

Note: the local bank may want you to have some skin in the game so it is likely that you will need to put 10% out of pocket. 

Where we’re having difficulties is in getting in touch with these owners and we are looking for suggestions as to the most cost-effective method of tracking down phone numbers for these absentee owners?