These are things that seem to have no relevance to safety or habitability and I don't know how I can push back unless I have to get legal representation

Commercial lenders don't really look at DTI, If you have assets and relevant experience, if you find a good deal in your area with an acceptable dscr they'll probably loan on it.

Then copy the relevant information and send a letter to your landlord requesting the release of your SD or, you can sue for recovery of the deposit and reasonable attorney fees. 

Definitely ask a professional for advice, and make sure that professional is familiar with the relevant departments in the town where the property is located.We don't currently have any LI properties, but we have over the years...I recall one example from Town of Oyster Bay with a longstanding but unofficial conversion from SFH to 3 unit - in a zone where multi was allowed. 

though Houston and Dallas are surely the new sexy markets on the block I would have to respectfully disagree with Ali on this one as Memphis is still a very relevant market for investors.  

(And they're always relevant videos about real estate, many of them by Bigger Pockets.

You can text or email the tenants to schedule a time for the meeting, explaining that you have an important notice to deliver in person.Alternatively, you could try to find a reason to visit the fourplex for a non-rent related issue (such as a repair or maintenance issue) and use that opportunity to deliver the rent increase notice in person.It is important to remember that you are required to follow all relevant laws and regulations when increasing rent, including any notice requirements that may apply.

It is a great story nonetheless but not relevant in every case.

The "greater area" might not be relevant to this property depending on how they've defined this term.

Thinking about vacancy rate, average rental price, and other relevant info.Thank you!