I need to figure out how to get a Google Voice so I can make cold calls, but look local, as Google Voice does not work in Canada.

They may have missed their opportunity.Check with your local municipality regarding their maintenance code.

Ensure that it complies with federal, state, and local housing laws.

I'm local to you and happy to help you breakdown this decision.

The only goal I had was to find/buy/create a deal... something other local investors would jump on.

We've done this personally on refis with just a lease,  but through a local credit union so I'm sure it's different. it seems like there is a lot of potential problems this would create for the owner, tenant and PM if the lenders have to have a signed lease and all funds upfront, before the loan is closed.

I’m a math professor at a local college and teach personal finance and statistics.  

Every locale is specific, so beware with that.

The city has seen a rise in rental demand, especially for multi-family units, as more people are drawn to the area for its relatively lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas on the West Coast.Investors looking to enter the Spokane market for small multi-family properties should keep an eye on key factors such as property location, rental trends, and local development projects.

As a local investor and agent here in Columbus, let me know if you have any questions or want to connect!