There would potentially be some weight issues with the 2nd+ floors of some shopping malls, depending on what the potential tenant wants to store in the upstairs unit. 

The property is livable, but I am account for a pretty significant turn in 4 - 7 years of paint, flooring, and any miscellaneous repairs that the inspector could have missed since it was occupied.

I think you are looking at the wrong places, insulating the floor wouldn't change much. 

In the end, it would have made more sense to hire a couple handymen for a week or two than me spending 3 weeks installing flooring, base and case.

Some of the best deals are in dysfunctional floor plans.

One asterisk to all of the above areas are townhomes and condos.

If you are not attached to the duplex, could be a good time to sell to developers who want to convert to individual condo units.

Quote from @Ricardo Polanco: Good evening everyone, I am evaluating the possibility of buying a multifamily property in Scranton, at this moment it has 2 apartments that only need cosmetic repairs and it has a big 2nd floor unit that needs a full repair.

., paint, flooring, or perhaps a kitchen or bathroom remodel), buying it at a decent discount, and putting down at least 25%.

For rate scenarios lenders need to know much more info:1) SFH, Condo, or?