If that is true, you can but lenders who do this typically only do it with a rehabber with experience and a good track record.

What is everyone's favorite way to keep track of receipts for taxes/expenses?!

I took the initiative to learn as much as I possibly could about the business, particularly small multi family buy and hold.

You need to contact a real estate attorney who performs litigation and not just a contract and "book" Attorney.They will have private investigators who will track down and investigate the property management and interview the tenants.You may have a bit more problems than you know about,yet.This won't be cheap but you have got to protect your property and investments from fraud and abuse.

Through lots of reading and learning we have decided to try to find a multi-family/duplex to live in and rent.

Hi John,Multi family in the  bay area is tricky.

So I have  wondered if I am doing it right...For me, the con with gravels is that it tends to get tracked back inside.

One day it snowed a bit, and the snow I tracked in never melted all day.

We are considering a property with two commercial spaces and two 1/1 apartments. The realtor just told me we need 50% down. Has anyone experienced this and are there any other options?

Also related to this property -...

I'm excited to get started ASAP after I get married (in March 2017) and plan to start with a multi-family unit to occupy and rent out other units simultaneously.