Using leverage is fine... its the level of risk, and each investor has a different plumbline by which they measure how much risk is comfortable.I keep my properties in separate bank accounts. 

Make sure you have the cash to cover the mortgage, while also accounting for the payments during reno period when you don't have tenants.2) being near a university is great as long as your close enough.

I like to contribute as much as I can tax differed to the retirement accounts like solo 401k, IRA etc.

One-foot overhang for eaves would be allowed.ADU Size (in sf)LOT SIZE (SF)ADU MAXIMUM SIZE (SF)3,000 - 5,4446005,445 - 9,0007009,001 - 10,00080010,001 - Up900LOT SIZE (SF)ADU MAXIMUM SIZE (SF)Up to 90001,0009,000 and greater1,200Number of Bedrooms and BathroomsTwo bedrooms allowed on lots with an area greater than 9,000 square feet, and only one bathroom.Up to two bedrooms and two bathrooms allowed for all units.Attached ADU Maximum Floor AreaMay not exceed 50% of the existing or proposed primary dwelling living area.May not exceed 50% of the existing or proposed primary dwelling living area or 800 square feet, whichever is greater.Design StandardsVisual compatibility with existing primary dwelling is required.No design standards, except new simplified standards for attached ADU units for historic buildings listed in the Historic Resources Inventory.Parking requirementsAn ADU requires 1 space unless the property qualifies for an exemption under State law—see the parking requirements.If a garage has been converted, the main dwelling parking space must be replaced, as uncovered or in front or side setback areas.

This is why IRR is typically used to show the return of the project while accounting for the time it takes to actually receive that return.I would ask for the Syndicator to show you the projected annual returns year over year for a hypothetical investment of $100,000, they should be able to provide that information for you as it will already be in their underwriting. 

Set up an escrow account. 

I am currently completing a major in finance and accounting and  hold a real estate licence but currently not working in the Industry as I own and operate my own pizza business.

I am starting out in REI, but I have a hard time imagining not maxing out retirement accounts available to me (403b, Roth IRA, etc). 

We have a good Accountant but I can't stand the loose ends that pile up and want to be more proactive.  

Because $200 per door doesn't take into account how much money you are investing into the deal.