I’d like to move into Multifamily somewhere (likely not in DC area bc the prices are too high), and there are definitely multiple ways to get access to that equity to do so.Thoughts?

I'm currently in a country in which real estate has been booming and it shows no signs of stopping.

I will not have access to wifi ( I don't want to use a tenants wifi to connect to the cameras).

If the agent was holding them against reimbursed expenses, then you still declare that income and also the expenses.If I were you, I would stop doing your own tax return and hand it over to a qualified professional. 

Specific to your problem:  stop using a buyers agent and call up the listing agent, easiest to find on realtor.com but zillow does show "presented by" on some ads.Learn how to calc MAO (max allowable offer), call the listing agent, small talk, ask if the seller is flexible, why selling etc etc. 

I want to convert that attic to a master bed with stairs access from backyard.

Can you stop by the house and offer to pay the back taxes on the property and then take ownership?

There is no inspection period, and the interior of most homes is not accessible, so you usually have no idea what the interior condition is.

It is in a downtown environment with access to pubs, highways, etc.

But, it seems like MLS access might not be a huge advantage?