Higher Credit Scores allow you to get larger loan sizes or higher LTV options.

Louis, even buying a property for $2k might be overpaying for it ;-) These properties always need some sort of extensive/gut rehab, so they are not for the faint of heart (or stomach)!

However, after dealing with the constant headaches of repairs, complaints, and other issues, I made the decision to shift my focus to larger commercial deals in partnership with others.I have co-founded a coinvesting club, allowing me to diversify my investments across multiple deals.

I'm still in the process of growing my portfolio, but have heard others 1031 all their smaller properties into a larger building and have a property management company manage, OR, set up a seller financing deal with another buyer that gives you the cash flow you desire. 

is that a combination of larger down payments + paydown over the past few years? 

We are considering building a small multifamily a couple duplexs, a tri or quad in a small suburb of a larger city (ie Nashville, Knoxville, Atlanta, Ashville). 

I live in Asheville and am looking at STR in the Franklin area - agree with other posters that it's sort of between more desirable destinations, but also seems that the lower prices reflect that.

Consider offloading an underperformer, or a high equity property and getting better, larger or more assets.

However, once you sell shares you will have some sort of tax bill to pay.  

I would suggest going to independent landlords and staying away from larger apartment complexes.