Even with multiple units, with current interest rates and a competitive market (prices have continued to rise even with higher interest rates) think the Madison market is a stronger long term ownership strategy, where the bulk of your return will come when you sell from appreciation in rents and property value. 

By summer, prices should start rising again, presenting better seller opportunities.Multi-Family Properties: Values have dropped due to lower rental rates, with the best deals already seen in past years.

A strong buyers market indicates sellers price cutting and listings being bought under value which would lead to equity losses. 

Quote from @River Sava: Hey April - Refinancing after a year if there's limited equity depends on your goals—lowering your monthly payment, cashing out, or switching loan types.The process usually involves checking your current loan terms, appraised value, and credit situation.

Depends on your clientele.

I get people calling crying they want to sell their lot they bought for $50,000 and I tell them they're lucky to get resale at $5,000...then of course they don't want to sell....but if they don't sell they're paying $1000 year plus property taxes for a lot that likely won't go up in value for years.So think about your exit strategy. 

Duplex appraised 380 (super ****ing low ball) brings in an estimated 3,900 a month in rents. buyer agreed and SIGNED addendum to purchase at 397,500. day of closing they dont show, tell us they didnt know what they agreed to pay over appraised value and are trying to get us to accept 386k. my agent had me lock in our month to month long term tenant to a year lease for THEIR lender and now they pull this.. they have only 5k in escrow account.. my agent wont reduce his commission from 3%-2% to help bridge the gap. suggestions?? 

CT is one of the oldest markets but lots of forced value in good off market deals.

I haven't added the 11th, the one that lost about 60% of value. 

RTC stands for "Over the Counter" which itself means, liens that were not sold at the original lien auction and are available no on  a first come first served basis at face value.