Sean, it seems that you will need to replace the cesspool with a septic system within 1 year of the sale date, so if the seller can't do it before closing (always preferred!)

I prefer dealmakers to treia.

On the one hand, my partner currently owns a house and it is being rented by 3 separate individuals (3 bedroom, 2 bath home) and that scenario is working really well.

So if you use best practices in property management, you probably do not need to protect the other properties individually against each other.   

You can get away with a lower down payment, easy to analyze and some renters prefer only SFs.

Any tips on how to start with being “preferred” or referred to from an adjuster?

This varies by individual and who their $ source is.

My initial desire in real estate has been to do a house hack, preferably in a multi-unit building in order to rent out part of the property.

If you are an investor (preferably a multi-family), and could use a hand with running errands, painting walls, running to Home Depot, or anything that takes a little stress off your shoulders... in exchange for the knowledge and expertise you have gained throughout your journey.

>> We prefer not to bother the tenants.