This is a pretty cool tool to compare how historically (in the US) different asset allocations worked (https://www.portfoliovisualize...). 

I've seen a few houses that advertise new roofs, new cooling systems, new water heaters, etc...

Also Kansas City is relatively landlord friendly plus its a cool city. 

Today I drove past this very run down property. It appears to be a vacant 5-plex. This property intrigued me so I decided to dig a bit. I am interested learning more about this property and if it could be a opportunit...

Saving money on a 30-year loan could be a cool idea if you value the security of paid-off property, but in the example of your 4-plex you have some extremely powerful leverage possibilities.If I were in your situation, I would do one of two things:1.

One tenant hears from neighbors about the heating and cooling costs (this in a condo situation).

I have a tenant complaining that the AC is not cooling when the temperature get around 90 degrees but it cools in the morning and the evening when the temperature is lower and also the walls are sweating for some reason.

Sure, the housing market values may cool off, but it shouldn't crash (that's my two cents).I don't have a great answer for you. 

Again it all comes down to theming and cool factor.

It is so cool and I love it!