It sounds like you are off to a great start trying to learn as much as possible and playing the long game.

Sounds good. 

That sounds real scary to use in a state like California. lol. 

Two of those properties ended up as LTRs which also made decent returns so I'm not a total newbie to real estate.So I've got three projects I'm looking at that will affect timing etc.1- My wife and I are currently more than half way through building a new primary residence house north of Asheville, projected completion in October.

We did not get an EIN since the plan was to form a joint LLC at the end of project completion.

It sounds like the idea is good for more of a SFR, or a 1-4 unit rehab but my concern from a lender's perspective is the needed experience in the more 10+ unit space to give "normal" (80% leverage) on a deal like this. 

My hope is that the clientele we bring in won't completely trash the place but I realize that is just wishful thinking and that people, regardless of income/ what they are willing to pay, can behave like animals (I was in the auto industry before becoming an attorney and the things I saw walking trades will forever haunt me). 

Not only for investment purposes, but if you're house hacking, then it will be your home too.It sounds like you're motivated considering your proactive approach.

So, that’s a plus that I’m not a complete stranger but none the less still a stranger (I’ve never met the owner but met his property manager when I was home for Christmas last year)  

That sounds too good to be true.