The risk is that, if this doesn't occur in time, the market itself will "sort out" the issues on its own and arrive at an equilibrium that is far from what most (or all) stakeholders would prefer.

I know we could just bundle them into a commercial loan when the time came, but we really aren't looking for more than 20 properties overall and so would prefer to get the best rates we can and lock them in for 30 years.  

Wholesaling teaches you to find off market dealsit teaches you how to do a solid ARVIt teaches you how to build a cost of repairs.It teaches you how to deal with sellers and to negotiate.It teaches you about contracts, dealing with flippers and dealing with sellers.Wholesaling is a MUST first step to ... well any niche in REI.So what ever your reason.. should not be seen as an excuse or to be ashamed of.

And some platforms have more of a reputation for this than others.In my opinion the first thing to start with is at the platform level (or fund level if you're like me and prefer them to the platforms), and look at the uncured default rate.

Also do you prefer college students or families to rent to? 

I tried using a few others and quickly found out why these guys are the preferred option for most of the local investors here. 

If anyone is arguing for or against if its listed or not, its just their preference or a sound bite that they are repeating. 

CA is great for appreciation and there is definitely going to be continued long term growth, etc...but I’d prefer a lower cost and higher yielding investment personally.What are your goals?

Lower operating costs are definitely a consideration I take into account when I’m looking at property, and I think most would agree that a house with $0 electricity bill is preferable to one with a bill. 

@Dayne WintersHoboken (preferably Downtown),Jersey City (Anywhere off the "PATH" Train, note the Waterfront, Downtown, and Newport are nicer than Journal Square)Manhattan (anywhere really but the nicest areas are anywhere south of about 70th street)Queens (Long island city, or Astoria near a subway stop)Brooklyn (Downtown, Heights, Carroll Gardens, Park slope, Williamsburg, there are others but that's just the short list)Since your question is a bit limited I am unsure if this is business or vacation and if it is with children or without.