I'm also curious if anyone with experience in multiple markets has any suggestions as to whether another market might be best for my situation and trying to start off with the smallest possible out of pocket investment?

I always try to remain open to suggestions or even criticisms.  

If they ask questions you know they are interested and you then ask them to suggest their terms.

If you need some suggestions to talk to should you decided to go the hard money long-term option let me know.

We hope to put them to work for us in exchange for free trips to Hawaii to hang out with their family.Can anyone suggest reading material for a tear down/rebuild?

However, I would suggest staying away from the Park Place neighborhood in the Norfolk area if you end up expanding your search.

Lender suggested that we cut the stack below unit 5, and re plumb 5 bathroom from ceiling below to prevent having to remove bath tub and upper portion and roof penetration on vent stack.  

Any suggestions?  

Also, a few suggestions to put out signs in the area.

I suggest that new be syndicators find someone that is successfully doing it and find a way to be of service to them.