Real estate is transactional where people are involved so it won't be a black and white answer.The best to do is to find an agent that fits your needs and guide you through the process.

REI is for serious people.

Lots of times you will have people complaining about noise even if you disclose it on the listing. 

It's slower, but patient people tend to make wise investments.

But wanted to ask here what other people have done or if you have any ideas.

I am very cautious about stuff like this but if i find anything interesting or worthwhile considering I can let people know.

It is an amazing city with great people and plenty of opportunities in the real estate space.

@Jason Sinclair, having a designer for a wife, I would answer that it really depends heavily on each house, the flow and usability of the spaces as they are, and the overall use of space in the house as a whole.That being said, while there may be a small shift towards more separated spaces, "open concept" is by no means dead, and in many markets, most people seem to still want to have connectivity between their communal spaces.In fact, my wife's current flip is a split level (although technically it is a split-foyer), and she is taking out a structural wall to connect the kitchen, dining and living areas.  

Quote from @Chris Seveney: @Charlene Kingsnorth have you had an sec attorney also review what you are doing as if you're are having multiple people as part of a loan participating in it depending on the state this could get you in hot water - so be careful  good point Chris some state allow fractionalized deed of Trust mortgages other do not or require PPM like documents prior to offering them..

I am looking forward to connecting with people in the area and sharing wisdom along the way!