Personally I prefer reading and have a job that affords me hours at a time to do so, so I’ve bought BiggerPockets books and other business and real estate books and recommended books online.

Looking for financing options and would prefer someone local to my area to build a relationship with.

Thanks Have your HVAC pro install a thermostat sensor in one of the units (preferably upper unit for gas savings) and then put the thermostat control in the basement in a locked box. 

If not, it's a matter of personal preference whether you want to get out of your apartment, or capitalize on the rental cash flow.

I prefer one person to be the primary resident/ responsible party.

The seller said he prefers M-M because he can evict quickly if they do not pay.

First, I recommend that you leverage your VA loan and find a property that you can house hack, preferably a small residential multi-family.

Was looking at laundromats, and turns out customers prefer them in strips with a dozen stores, rather than smaller commercial properties or free standing ones where they can do something while there clothes are being washed. 

Good morning Michael,For a faster and smoother sale where you can earn top dollar for the property, I'd recommend selling vacant.If you prefer to keep the tenants in place and sell "as-is", you will have to sell at a number that makes sense to a rental property investor in that market.

Also, I can connect you with a few of my preferred lenders here in The Valley that can help you figure out the financing part.