The management company said it was in working order, so why costs to repair and red flags that the cost is split as another resident damaged it...what is the truth-it was fine or it was damaged already or did it damage another person's car as well?

Focus on what we can control...adding value, good locations, cash flow, prudent debt, and reserves and we will be fine.

So I personally would be fine reading that, he as an attorney is only looking out for himself too. 

If you're going to live in one side this may affect the "cash flow," but if you buy based on positive projections from renting out both sides you should be fine as you'll be paying yourself the rent you may be currently paying, so it's not a sunk cost. 

I work full time but manage my one local property just fine without a management company.

Thanks I have also done this and it turned out just fine.

As long as it passes VA appraisal you should be fine.

HELOC's are fine for down payment but I wouldn't recommend financing the entire purchase with a HELOC.

On here, or as I've been known to do, waxing poetic about the city in the passenger seat of many an Uber after a night out at some of our fine establishments hahaha

I would be fine with this tenant.