Common sense would probably say that someone new to real estate would start off with an SFR and go from there, but I am very attracted to the efficiency of multi family… one deal, one roof, etcThis is purely hypothetical.

They seam to attract the smoke and then emit the odor when they heat up.

There is an outlet right outside the closet, but I am worried that having a permanently plugged in light will make the bedroom and closet less attractive.

This tier is very attractive to contractors, as someone stated.

This is much lower than the CAPs I am currently achieving on my condos, but to me it feels like a good tradeoff given that the houses are in very good areas with potential for appreciation, good school, should attract good longer-term tenants, etc.

The terms might not be as attractive but it will still be better than trying to pay cash or not doing the deal at all.

No need to tie into the rest of the house, since there are units that can be used just to condition (heat and cool) a small space like that.I believe that the electrical wiring can be surface mounted in channels or in conduit or in metal jacketed cable, but those aren't as visually attractive as being behind a wall.You want this to be living space - anything in particular (family room, office, etc)?

Remember that part of your success comes from people knowing they can trust you, that you do what you say and that you operate in a way that will not attract unnecessary legal or regulatory action.Too much reading between the lines leads people to think that there is a snake in the grass so they will not trust you.Find a good agent that can run automated reports.

Some are at the price point fairly attractive to first time buyer and I notice few did got sold at 6~10% above foreclsoured amount.

I would want the tenant out so I could get the rodent problem under control and get a full scope of the termite damage.That is what I would be concerned with as well as your re-tenant and lost rent costs until you rent the unit out again.Since you own a duplex they have shared walls.You have to make sure the other tenant is clean or the pest control service will make ZERO DIFFERENCE.The reason is even if you put poison down but food is available the pest will leave the poison and eat the food.You have to close off all exterior gaps of the building,keep tree branches away from critters getting in,keep trash in trash cans and away from the building for pick up,clean unit top to bottom,pull out stove and fridge in kitchen and degrease and sanitize.After years of recycling tenants you would not believe what builds up back there that attracts and breeds pests.Good Luck