--------------I also found two identical 8-unit apartment complexes (they're right next to each other and for sale) going for $180,000 each.

Are they identical?

Sometimes to verify permit is posted.

Just verify that they report to all three credit bureaus.

If I have good I.D. and a big bank account and references to verify they are not just hiding, there is usually a middle ground that can be reached.

The success or failure of this type of investment is largely determined by WHO you are doing business with.In summary, I like the strategy but you have to do homework on the deal AND the sponsor, talk to references, obtain and verify track record information, and be prepared to NOT invest if things just aren't adding up.Good luck!

I was looking at a 4-plex near my home and saw that there were probably 20 identical buildings on the same street, all looked identical except for paint, etc.

If I were you, I would look to verify that there was adequate drainage underneath the slab.

A more precise way of explaining what I'm saying is that you should always invest cash in whatever investment you can find that yields the highest returns.Paying cash towards your mortgage is financially identical to investing in a zero-risk investment that has an annualized ROI equal to your mortgage rate.

Very definitely verify this with your own accountant before taking any such action.Best wishes,Jim