"If you reduce the price on the 4plex by X so i can come up with the cash fast, you can bump the rate up to Y and add Z years to the term .. which will net you an additional $XYZ over the course of the loan"  Start low and long with the rate and term, especially if he's not budging on the overall price much!

I also like brick houses and harden them with vinyl plank flooring so that damage is reduced at turnovers.

Low down payments will result in higher mortgage payments and thereby reduce your potential cash flow.For example using your numbers:Income = $3,075 mo.Operating Expenses =$1,122.75 mo.

Quote from @Eric Rich: If you borrow against the equity, that will be another monthly payment and reduces cashflow.

Depending on companies involved, I have seen a vacant policy providing more coverage than a standard policy that the coverage has reduced due to vacancy. 

Do it properly to start with to reduce nightmares down the road.

You can always make additional payments to pay down your principal, therefore reducing your interest overall, just like a 15 year.If your goal is to pay off asap, go with a 15 year.

I believe we have a civic duty to effectively manage our properties and reduce the number of calls to 911.

If you can pull off the larger deals that would probably be the way to go - but just be sure you have a plan to increase revenue and reduce expenses.

There are DSCR lenders that will still lend on rural properties, with reduced leverage however.