The other electric meter I pay for because it feeds 2 units (the first floor and basement).1)Would this be a good investment with worthwhile tax benefits?

-> Stress-test rehab/vacancy/hold time.3) Your profit is made at purchase. 

That’s the first post I’ve ever seen on Bigger Pockets for Crossett Arkansas… Good old Crossett

I recently learned that if you owner occupy a residence for part of the 5 previous years before sale, and you rent it for the remaining time, you can calculate the percentage of time the property was owner-occupied (and thus qualifies for the sec. 121 primary sales tax exemption of up to $250k for single filers) vs the time it was being rented (which qualifies for 1031 exchange) and claim both benefits. https://hcsequity.com/blog/combining-1031-exchange-with-121-....How does this work for a multi-family?

The biggest lesson I learned is that there is nor time like the present.

If I had $40k lying around to spend on a program, I'd rather put that toward my first deal. 

If the market is slowing down, it might be better to hold and wait for a better time to sell.It's great that you're thinking ahead and considering all your options.

Purchase price: $345,000 First Buy&hold of many.

What if one member can't pay their share when the time comes? 

I have borrowers tell me all the time that "other" lenders do not require an appraisal.