They seem to be growing at a fairly rapid rate so I suspect much of this is related to growth pains. they do generally have solid deals and are easy to work with during the purchase process. 

How much more a..pain is it than a standard VA loan?

This thread is reassuring that there is profitable blocks in Newark. 

I would look in OC, ocean block, or possibly directly on the bay (with a great view) if you run the numbers.

I think if you can get through the pain, it's well worth it.

IMO, the NAHB (home builders) has been successful at blocking the advancement of modular techniques, it's political, many building regs offices won't allow them or require additional certifications and tougher inspections.

I vacillate between doing some work on the '08 to get it going faster and just buying an old fox body Mustang and putting in a big block.

The fact that political ideology and pandering to a voter block trumps principle in Washington DC, doesnt mean the rest of us have to sell out to either complacency or greed and aid and abet criminals.

Know the values of homes inside and out, block by block.

I know neighborhoods in Detroit right off the Southfield Freeway/Warren area that you would think you in Dearborn Heights but go down to ten or so blocks and it looks like a war zone, every other home is vacant. ( Speaking as a Metro Detroit Native) I would suggest to your friend:-evict the tenant who is refusing to pay the rental agreement price.