In your case of a fourplex, option 2 should get you a better deal.I would also agree with Bill on how the number of units may not correlate with the value of the property unless it is a large multifamily complex, and sometimes a fourplex or several single family houses would give you better returns. 100% We always recommend conventional first until you can no longer qualify for those. 

There are people who buy a longer term (12 months or more ) OPTION giving them a RIGHT to purchase a subject property, at a certain price, within a certain amount of time, and attempt to either sell the option for a higher price or close on a simultaneous purchase and sale to an end buyer paying a higher price.  

Have you explored any of these options yet?

Most of the population is relying on card or electronic payment options.

From my experience, cities like Greenville, Columbia, Augusta, Huntsville, Chattanooga, and Jacksonville offer strong house-hacking opportunities with growing job markets, solid rental demand, and affordable multi-family options.

When I was younger I sold a condo with a lease option, but didn’t do it correctly; I had to evict and foreclose.  

You can try to attend virtual events, many real estate meetups and events offer virtual options.

Can anyone tell me if this is a genuine scam or is this a viable program to use a vehicle to start my Real Estate Investing journey.

Investing locally isn't an option. 

i did this early in my career and it was helpful.another option would be to build your own working group / beginner mastermind of people in your same position.