You could limit advertising to reduce that likelihood of a Section 8 renter finding it.

This greatly reduces risk. 

I thought about just blocking the vents on the second floor, but it can mess up the air handler if I reduce the CFM its meant for? 

With my first property I was very stressed out, but I just pushed forward past that discomfort and now four years later and six properties, I'm pretty comfortable with it.   

Once to have narrowed it down to one or two areas, you are going to need a good property manager (this will reduce your cash flow, but if it is an out of state rental, you need someone who can manage it). 

This takes a little more work, but it's the most fair and reduces the likelihood of tenants that squander utilities.If you choose #2 or #3, there are considerations:Start with an average.

It required a lot of work, and we did not just go through all the time, stress, and expense (which we'd do gladly for family member) to just sell it and break even.

You would greatly reduce the value by turning a 3 into a 2 and the process is not easy at all.

For many, the cash flow and reduced vacancy risk with multi-family is what makes them attractive.

As long as you have access to a lot of capital to fund renovations, vacancy, and unexpected items, not to mention can handle the stress,  and trust me--t will be a lot, and it's a lot of stuff no one  (except BP!)