It could be hard to prove with outside agents (regular buyer agents) as they don't log their clients in on showings, only themselves as the agent.

In researching properties today, I found a number of examples in the seattle area where multiple separate buildings on one parcel are logged as "present use" with the total units.

I would also evaluate where you are at in life in regards to kids?

I would evaluate at least 5 properties if there are that many in the area.  

They will evaluate critical factors like land grades, water and sewer systems, and overall feasibility.

My wife and I are currently evaluating a 9-unit MF in my old hometown.

While all the posts have at lease some legitimate points, I personally believe camp 1 is missing the opportunities present to protect assets under US law mostly because they don’t either understand asset protection, or don’t want to bother with it, so rather than do a proper evaluation they dismiss it as something that won’t work to justify their unwillingness to entertain the idea.Camp 2 is deluding themselves - which delusion has been enhanced by charlatans writing books, giving seminars, and selling packaged plans all of which either attempt to hide your assets or hide the ownership of your assets.  

I knew it was a unique real estate market .. but sadly all the risks I evaluated were correct.

I recommend AirDNA subscription for picking and evaluating both markets and individual properties, a little pricy, but if you are taking the investing seriously and with a long-time horizon, definitely worth it in my opinion

With your strong equity, consider refinancing to improve cash flow, selling a few properties to reduce debt and build liquidity, or re-evaluating rents and exploring short-term rentals for better returns—all while aligning with your long-term goals.