Build a solid foundation before taking a step up - each and every step of the way.There’s a way to scale recklessly and there is a way to scale safely.When OPM is involved safe is way better than reckless.Despite a life long career in RE, I scaled as followsBought a few duplexes for my own accountBought a fourplex for my own accountBought 12 units as a JV with some friendsSyndicated 43 unitsSyndicated 30 unitsBought another 12 units as a JVSyndicated 281 unitsThis was over a 3 or 4 year period.and so forth - now I am GP in close to 1000 units with $125M AUM.Even with all that, my sweet spot is 30 to 50 unit properties - they work best for my partners and I and more importantly our investors. 

Now, if they don't want to do that for whatever reason and don't have anybody to work with who would do that for you, I'd have to agree with you that they'd better invest at home rather than getting involved in something they don't understand.

Ourcurrent approach involves identifying possible contact information for thelisted owners and calling multiple numbers, but this process is time-consumingand yields limited results.

I have thought about Fundrise (medium success when I invested there), Crowdstreet (I have not invested there but might consider), farmtoghether (20k invested there already) and groundfloor (bad experience so not looking to invest there).Any advice will be appreciated.There is no greater wealth than peace of mind - Buddha - I have both directly owned real estate and passive investments in my portfolio.And if you're an accredited investor, then you have many options for investing in real-estate passively (and that don't involve all the stress of direct management nor putting money into public markets...which tend to be much more volatile).

I’d love to connect with investors who are experienced in flipping, renting, or managing properties—especially those in or close to the New Jersey area.If you’re involved in property management, real estate investing, or anything related, I would appreciate any advice or mentorship you can offer.

The apt is on the 2nd floor and the furnace is in the attic.I will talk to the heating contractor about setting up a floor temp ( might involve installing a 2nd t-stat as a couple people suggested).

If a trainer won't do that, and if a guaranteed property isn't involved, it goes nowhere. 

People who are involved in anything tend to have an overinflated sense of self, ego and importance.

There is more paperwork involved with that option.

This is a bit more involved, but as you scale, it is something you should consider.In response to your second question, I would say "yes" to allowing pets.