Since I am just starting out the financing is the area I seem to need the most education in.

When she finally returned her tone had changed significantly and she said that I will not be receiving a check after all.

You are going to need the help of a good attorney to sort through this mess and truthfully it maybe cheaper to give up your deposit.

I guess it depends on how big are you planning to get to need all these middlemen.Also real Estate brokerages are not just there to lend their name, unlike what this guys are offering, they are liable for what their agents do, and they do go thru more training and educations than a salesperson does, agents are only independent contractors as far as the IRS is concern.

You are likely still going to need a similar down-payment.

Next time let them deal with bozos like that listing agent, while doing so with a professional tone to get the straight shot answers you need to proceed or move on. a lot of people will tell you that 1% of MLS deals are good deals, and even fewer will be available to track down.

They may decide to spend some additional and get some other desire met (more room, a gym, a pool, whatever they decided in the last 7 years would be nice to have).If the tenant leaves you are likely going to need to spend money to paint the place and possibly replace carpet. 

All those future employees are going to need housing, etc etc.

And I did not know the business well enough not to need a broker. 

They are about 90% occupied.I was considering the following:Replacing all flooring with vinyl plank except for bedroom (add new carpet when needed)Painting all units 2 tone colorsReplace appliances with new appliances that come with 3-5 year warrantyChange p traps and plumbing under sinks (Noticing more leaks and stop ups)Change all filters (should be doing anyway I know) Resurfacing TubsI could increase rents on the property but I would only do so for my problem "late or non paying tenants" so the move would be a value add/bulletproof to reduce maintenance.Anyone have any other strategies or suggestions?