This does not count as income so it will not help me qualify for a larger loan.

If not possible then do your due diligence on any operators in your market of choice.

If the property is already listed, then really, your only choice is to go through the Realtor.Realtors are legally obligated to present offers to their clients so they should present yours. 

Yeah that makes sense on a larger property there are economies of scale so hiring security cost per unit wouldn't be as expensive. 

not sure what the answer is.. a lot of these folks would not live in a normal residence given the choice so you have that working against you as well.Maybe allow your tenants to have a large breed dog for safety like a German shepard.. 

If you really want the deal, offer the seller more money and put up a larger NON-REFUNDABLE deposit. 

Next stop syndication for larger deals.

I’m exploring this site and real estate in particular as a way to increase our cash flow, ease up our responsibilities and increase our choices in how we live our lives.I’m particularly interested in multi family investment properties, first to move my 22 out of my house (anyone familiar with Denver will know the housing cost situation here is tough), and second for passive income streams and equity building for my children’s future. 

Or being part of a larger project?

What are the property prices like in your market and do you have experience managing them (or are you looking for a larger property and outsourcing the management?)