If you are riding on a single syndication to fund your retirement, then I think you are in classically risky territory.

What are the pros and cons of such deal versus a comparably sized and located investment in a classic multi family (...where you own the building and land directly).Any resources you guys have that I can educate myself on?

Classic Jekyll and Hyde behaviour. 

Another I didn't replace any furniture but did a classic rock theme with the decor.  

I have been in the field (construction/building) for almost 14 years now and have been contemplating jumping in to real estate with my partner since we began this venture.My business partner Shawn, is a classically educated guy, also in his early 30's.

Just a suggestion A risky suggestionA risk that can pay very wellAlthough if your following GDEN stock i feel they are going to be a classic example of over leveragingI mean interest payments ruining earnings!

Around here, the classic 2 or 3 bed apartment will be built in the 20's to the 50's, it has a living room in the front, dining room in center, kitchen in rear, and bedrooms to the side, all with closets, and hardwoods. 

I'm wondering if there are any good platforms out there that are free (that offer real estate books and not just "classics").

Laura,Tons of forums on this topic on BP (try searches on "screening", etc)...People will and have chimed in with their process and recipe....Also, you may want to also look broadly at the renting and tenant onboarding process (I have a few classic buy and hold landlording books on a blog post, all should be free at library or low cost at used bookstore).....Best of luck!

these were classic cases of chasing yield into unfamiliar territory and tenant demographics..