I immediately asked myself, why am I only seeing on BP discussions about MF syndications.The outlook and returns seem to be very similar, and yet seemingly less risky.

What are units of similar sizes renting for?

I would say if you found a property that had the size and similar amenities of where you currently live you(or at least not a substantial decrease), there would be little issue.

Rent first.I had a similar situation with a tenant dying of cancer and he stopped paying rent.

Scroll down to near the bottom of the page and take a look at the "Nearby Sold Homes" and look at similar homes as close to the subject property as possible.

Similar if it has difficult to assess access/easments it may not get redeemed.Of the list of properties we had interest in when we started, we are down to 4 potential properties (5 if I count the one with the access/easement potential issue) that are not currently redeemed that after visiting we still have interest. 

A few points on this as I've done some similar deals:- In general conventional lenders won't allow this, but certainly call around.- I have done this with commercial lenders, but I had to have the down payment first, and then the seller 2nd mortgaged essentially reimbursed me.- The bank will use the lower of the appraisal or purchase price for their loan. 

I am young (mid 20s) and have similar plans as you. 

I’m looking to grow more as an investor than as an agent and would like to work with someone with similar goals using brokerage as a vehicle

The inspector was also an a-hole so that didn't help..On a good note, we finally listed the house last week and have accepted an offer which will net us about 80k.I hope this can help someone who is going through something similar, or deciding whether or not to get permits.