I think as your properties get more expensive it is a bit more unrealistic to do much more than that.

Know that success without conflict is unrealistic.

Yes, I'm well aware 100% financing is unrealistic.

This owner simply bought at the top and is unrealistic which is why it is sitting.The 15k reduction doesn't mean anything if it was already 100k or more overpriced.The only way they are running costs in the 25% range is if they are deferring maintenance on the property.If you have a size able chunk of money like you are saying I would forget the 4 unit stuff.I would buy a larger property where you control the look and feel of the development and will have more upside in equity down the road and also land for possible redevelopment.If you own a little 4 unit among a bunch of other 4 unit properties you generally are limited in resale scope and also are at the mercy of what the other investors who own around you are doing.So if they drop the rents,do a short sale or foreclosure,do not make repairs,put shoddy tenants in to just fill it up then it will affect your property no matter how well you keep yours.Just things to think about.Good Luck

Tax assessed value can often time give an unrealistic market value due to deferred appreciation and exempt status affecting any increase.

Being unrealistic with prices.The first item #1 is tricky since everyone says you can start with no money down etc.

Am I being unrealistic in hoping for this, or is there any other advice you'd offer me?

Now with that said that's pretty unrealistic, of course there will be hassles somewhere at some point.

It’s unrealistic to think that it will cashflow.Something will break.

I have personally walked through Premiers floors and Nudges floors.. hardly RE professionals helping.Just curious also of what you expected did you think taking this course would some how lead you to real estate richs.. to me that smacks of being highly unrealistic for most sensible folks.. this is a very tough industry NO one can give you basic training and all of a sudden your a rock star.. but did you believe that would be the case ???