I pass on lots of stuff (mostly on-market, though) so if we know each other's needs, we may be able to work together. 

After buying one property how soon can you put yourself back in the market if you do have enough reserved for down payment/closing cost? 

Syndication is all about marketing.  

The pros are you know you'll get paid and usually you get paid a higher rate than market rents. 

A direct purchase of a rental with no rehab, I would want 10% or greater.  10% would be my minimum in this market.

I understand there are benefits to a 1st time homebuyers but it seems like most are related to down payment assistance.

Examples:- Brokers- Cold Calling- Networking- On Market

You would probably have a much bigger benefit from low-flow water fixtures.

the best wholesalers spend thousands or tens of thousands of dollars a month on marketing. 

Based on your financing options, you are going to be limited to 4 units or under, given 5 and over become commercial lending, so no FHA or owner-occupied options.I am assuming you plan on living in one of the units, but to be clear, that will be a requirement for at least 12 months, under most mortgages.You may get other's posting about talking with wholesalers or trying to find off market deals.