Access to the unit can be granted to the personal representative, or if the personal representative fails to pay the rent or remove the personal belongings, the property manager can file an eviction against the estate of the deceased resident by suing the personal representative, who now “stands in the shoes” of the deceased resident.Upon a resident’s death, legal matters enter a state of limbo.

The folks I know who have done this haven't placed a formal lien; it was just done with a handshake and a promissory note that wasn't officially tied to any collateral. 

Btw, if any of you know of a nice 4/2, at least 2000 sqft and moderately updated I'd appreciate it, I'll be down the week of the 18th to try to tie up a lease.

If I were in your shoes I'd pick up an off lease vehicle maybe one that someone drive 36k miles on it then their lease ended.

I know better than to tie myself to 1 bank, but in this case I did.

@Steve Candor You've got your hands tied by staying put at your local agency.

Another aspect, buying a 12 unit apt is pretty static as an investment, you're tied into the parameters and business of a landlord.

Banks have loan requirements under the Community Reinvestment Act, that Cali requirement sounds like the non-recourse aspect ties to such loan requirements.

Buying apartment buildings is a lot like buying shoes.

@Mike M   Good points.. but its not one shoe fits all just like managing your own or hiring PM.I bought a MH park in Vancouver a few years ago... 44 spaces 7 figure purchase. the property had been self managed for the entire 25 years these folks owned it..