Three units to maintain.Although I need to do the math, scenario 1 strikes me as more economical as there are shared costs gained with a multifamily property.

For example, it's not uncommon to see a whole Asian family live together for a long time and essentially using group economics to start up family run businesses.

I would agree with this - its probably too soon / not economical to do a cash-out refinance at this point - options for freeing up equity would probably be best served via HELOC or something to that effect

If so, what are some good appreciating markets with good economic growth and safety?

Or he just added new units.  87.5% full from a unit, economic or sq foot standpoint? 

There is lots of economic development in Grand Rapids and it has a diverse economy. 

If you are having electrical work done, you tend to get better pricing for a larger job so adding on this work is more economical at that time. 6.

To the housing providers in Pomona ...how can we teach the Mayor & City Council of Pomona about the economics of and business fundamentals of providing our products to the market (housing)?

Over 90% Economic Occupancy.

For example, the areas economically influenced by NYC commuters: Westchester, Rockland, Dutchess, Putnam behave very differently than areas influenced by NY State employees from Albany, or farmers from (not sure?).