This goes against the "taught" logic people have been ingrained with.

They can crunch numbers and make logical decisions pretty well, but their knowledge on risk management, the contract, and covering their own backside is usually pretty terrible, especially when it comes to technically tricky issues and problems arising within an escrow.Now, granted this may be 100x bigger of an issue in my highly litigious state compared to yours, but I still think it's important wherever you go.Additionally, getting rid of your "middleman" might sound appealing, but - assuming you have a sharp agent - it's often about as smart as getting rid of your attorney and representing yourself in a lawsuit, or performing a surgery on yourself.

If they want a signed lease back the logical thing to do is to politely ask, communicate, not use extortion. 

Though logical and fair advice, the trip is happening.

I want to get an FHA loan and since it's a 'first time only' arrangement, rather than buy a single family residence (SFR), I figure maximizing my leverage on a 3 or 4 plex is the more logical way to jump in the market.I've been reading The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Real Estate Investing.

The reality is somewhat different.The truth is real estate investing, when done correctly, isn't difficult from a logical point of view.

@Patrick Martone, I agree with @Sunny Burns's logic.

It may be faulty logic from a pure dollars and cents and ROI standpoint, but as I only have this property and 1 other 1 bedroom condo, I have the time and ability to do the repaints (2 colors), etc etc.  

I thought of myself as a pretty logical person...

Logic is thrown out the window and $30,000 sounds like a deal.Don't fall for these tactics my friends.I've seen far too many, what would otherwise be smart people fall for these scams.You've been forewarned.