I just received this info from a realtor and I have not done multi family yet but I do know it is accessed differently.    

Or do you mean that you have equity in your home that you need to access in some way to then use for down payments and closing costs?

These steps are the only access to a 2nd floor small 300-ish sqft apartment.

You may qualify for the small taxpayer safe harbor depending upon the property basis and your total repairs and improvements on the property.

I don't understand what I am getting for my purchase of equity shares other than:1) no investor fees2) early access to loan offerings3) invites to shareholder events4) Groundfloor schwagSo are they wanted me to lend them money without offering any monetary return?

there's a 4plex near me in sacramento going for about 1mm. great cash flow play. newly renovated. u have access to the MLS?

In addition to lower taxes, Queens (for the most part) has plenty of transportation for easy access into the city.I am a little biased because its my hometown but Queens isn't the only county near Manhattan with property value increases and low taxes.

We also have access to many more products than that of your bank or credit union with minimal overlays. 

I have access to the MLS if you don't.

Here are some elements of security to consider;  Building Entry Doors Access Systems - How do visitors notify tenants that they are at the entry door?