And yes, we’re focused on value-add and lower occupancy communities.

However, Austin proper has a high barrier to entry due to the sharp rise in property values in recent years.

The probability of that happening drops much lower when YOUR voice is heard, when the actual victims get a chance to speak.

They work for my mom because it is a lower commission split, I feel like I am struggling because I have no leads.

I've tried the lower 6-7% PMs and usually you'll either pay mark ups on repairs (what you've noted) or pay extra fees (i.e. labor hours, extra calls) that you may or may not notice. 

A smaller valuation would mean less out of pocket to buy out your siblings and lower taxes, but it would also mean the lot rent is a much higher % of valuation.I can almost guarantee you can find properties in Grand Rapids that cashflow because I've found them all over the Midwest. 

Riskier assets are lower percentages.

when I used a capital gains calculator online, if I put zero money down and put the 2 loans, the cap gains is a lot lower than if I just recorded 1 loan and entered the money from the downpayment loan under cash.

Many of the recipients are single mothers who actually want to find stable housing for themselves and their children so initially they are looking for the best house they can find and it is only when time is running out and their voucher is expiring (Yes that is a thing) that they begin lowering their standards and will settle for a cheaply put together home. 

And in states that allow deposits and then settle up competition is higher as the price of entry is so low 5 to 20k deposits to bid.. now if you dont finalize you lose the money and can be fined as its illegal to bid and not close.