From an ROI perspective, there is much more money to be made in development, or investing in the booming short-term rental market in the Southeast where laws are significantly less restrictive (particularly in North Carolina, where municipal permitting is illegal).

Common practice in family law by divorcing couples.If all you want to know is the areas of law, what services are provided, etc., you can get that from my staff.

Also, just had a law firm file a notice of appearance on Fannie/Coopers behalf, but they filed no response.Thoughts anyone?

Also check your states Security deposit laws.

I now live in Germany, with mother in law because we have a baby and prefer to live with grandparents for the baby, plus its free and clear and no rent. 

You can find more info on 1031 exchanges at this link: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/like-kind-exchanges-under-irc-code-section-1031Regarding the change of ownership from joint to individual, there might be a couple of ways to handle that depending on your state laws and the terms of your divorce agreement.

For example, the laws in Texas allow me to include specific provisions in my leases that might not be legal in states like New York.One such provision I enforce is that once a tenant gives notice of non-renewal, I can immediately begin showing the property to prospective renters.Because its so state-specific I would reach out to a NY landlord, agent or property manger for more geographically specific advice. 

Just trying to figure out if it would be cheaper to build a new place with a in-law apt in the basement vs buying something already built.

Caution: some states like Maryland have addopted laws to protect homeowners in preforclosure from "Predatory" investors.

@Lucas HannonTo prepare for a multifamily property investment, read books on real estate investing, network with investors, analyze deals using tools like BiggerPockets, stay updated on real estate news, improve credit, collaborate with professionals, understand Texas landlord-tenant laws, develop a strong investor mindset, and set clear goals.Good luck!