If you want quicker returns maybe you need to consider flips.

It's a Plus for your tenants.. would I want to lug laundry down the block or down to the basement.. your tenants will stay longer, and you'll rent the units out quicker. overall original start up on anything is a cost consideration.. call around for quotes on lease options.. ask if they have used machines for sale ... check craigslist for used machines. 

So now the apartment becomes a 1 Bedroom at 485sq ft.Here is the kicker...The DOB told the seller, to put the garage back to normal, and leave the apartment as a studio so things can get approved quicker.

They quoted 2 weeks to close but I think they could have closed quicker if I needed and pushed for it 

IN my jurisdiction I would gladly boot or tow a vehicle as opposed to going the paper route as I  feel it would place me more in control and less at the mercy of our landlord tenant resolution process.

. $ Closing subject-to existing financing is quicker.

That should get you into the investment world a little quicker.

At the end of the year if you bank your cash flow you are looking at roughly 5k where as if you refi your cash deal it has potential to be substantially more cash to buy another at a quicker rate assuming all goes well with rehab.

Looking to get into REI for the cash flow to diversify my income streams and get to financial independence quicker.

That's not a bad idea, resolution is nearly irrelevant in what I want.