At a minimum, Rich Dad Poor Dad is typically the first book any investor reads.

The are typically glad to walk you through your situation before had rather than deal with appeals later.

Should be no surprise that they typically get a terrible response rate. 

8-12% and typically depends on experience, DTI, etc.

Is that typical or should we keep looking for another bank?

It is typically better to just form the LLC in the state where you are doing business to avoid that.

If the latter, how is this typically handled with respect to escrow?

Has anyone experimented with direct mail to Multi-family apartment owners as to which has a better response rate: typical yellow letter simple postcards or more formal appearing letters?  

The lenders in my market are looking for the buyer to be clear on their ability to manage the property (you or your team), the reassurance they will get their money back (you may have to personally guarantee the loan) and the typical numbers (CAP, DCR, age, condition, etc.). 

Homes in the Raleigh Bartlett area are not typically sitting vacant for 60-90 days, none that I have seen.