Sometimes the best deals are the ones you don't do.General Tips:  If you have the ability to manage a small 4 plex when you start, it can be an invaluable education. 

They usually sound good, but give very little practical advice and make it sound easier than it is.

You could put in a range of numbers for purchase price and closing costs, renovation expenses, and expected returns and you could very quickly get a range of projected return on investments (although an excel spreadsheet could easily do this as well), but I'm sure as technology develops we will see even more sophistication in AI's ability to assist in deal analyzing.

You make it so easy, you're so obvious, one need not travel further than the second sentence on your web page to find the first lie -- you may find yourself being accountable over silly practices and small dollars.

The real property investment can be repositioned if it proves disappointing in its original form; it can be refinanced or recapitalized if it has too much or too e pensive debt; inflation over time bales out many bad purchases, and finally the investors knowledge, experience and abilities can be leveraged to turn around a cash flow negative property.I’ll provide an exampleThree years ago we purchased a note from a bank secured by two auto repair facilities with a large amount of excess land.  

Even if their online banking and technology is not as strong, the ability to take advantage of their ancillary banking services, most notably their real estate lending far outweighs any minor inconveniences. 

@Gregory Banks I can offer some practical advice and referrals.

And as investors we should know this, but always anticipate higher costs and longer waits.EXAMPLE Breakdown of Costs:Plan Purchase: $1,500Permitting Fees: $2,500-7,500Site Preparation (grading, utilities, foundation): $20,000–$30,000ADUs require separate utility connections for water, electricity, and sewer but you can tap into existing utilities at the primary houseIn Raleigh you CANNOT split lots fee simple, so setting up completely separate utilities would not allow you to section off the ADU as of nowYour ADU must be on a permanent foundation (no wheels, no ability to move the structure)Construction (labor and materials): $100,000–$150,000Low-grade: $150–$180/sq ft averageMid-grade: $180–$220/sq ft averageHigh-end: $220–$250/sq ft averageLandscaping/Finishing Touches: $5,000Total Estimated Cost: $125,000–$200,000You could easily spend $200k+ with super end high finishes, custom designs, complicated sitework, adding a second story or more sqft, etc.

The Sampling Method is typically used for properties with nearly identical blueprints such as fast food chains or nursing facilities.EXPERIENCE OR “RULE OF THUMB” APPROACHThis approach is based upon the specialist’s experience in the industry and their ability to estimate the costs.

From an investment standpoint this reminds me I believe of a Bill Cosby story line I believe.