I realize that everyone will run a MTR business differently and I prefer to learn from different operators and develop my own technique 

Real Estate is a large asset class that has many different strategies inside of it. 

And a pro forma vs. end of year actuals are very, very different.

Each program is a little different so it just depends on your situation and income.They are quick and easy though once you get your certificate you can work with any Bank or Lender that is approved to use those DPA's.

Make sure to calculate the difference between the blended rate and an entirely new first lien position.

For financing, we were able to just do a 1031 exchange from a duplex we sold and make up the difference in cash.

Post the listing, Any local investor would be  able to tell you if you were fleeced in the acquisition, Birmingham is notorious for being different street to street. 500k houses one street over from 100k houses.

Duplex have different zoning that may permit additional units.

We're looking at a rather large loan and I feel like we could go down a different road if this place is not legit.Thanks. 

A good lender who understands out-of-state investing can also make a big difference.