You need to make sure you find quality, experienced professionals.

Look for comparable properties (same age) with new finishes the same quality as what you would use.

On the flip side, we've never had this many quality contacts in such a short amount of time. 

It might help if people knew what the 10k grant is called and what is needed in order to quality for it. 

They have high quality property management and can assist to find deals. 

Your goals are great, just make sure you have specific steps in between. the problem is in my market people who buy duplex are low quality tenants and the demand for triplex and quads are low... tips? 

This allows you to "move up" in the quality of life of your housing in the eyes of the lender.

@Anthony Thomas - a little late to the party but I've been impressed by Jim Barringer's quality of work (Jim Barringer Roofing) and relative pricing.

That being said, I would prefer to setup payment plans than to pay for turnover costs and vacancy plus there is the risk of the tenant quality of a new tenant when I know I already have a good tenant who fell on hard times.As for the future - all speculation here.

A balance of business and compassion up front is going to be very individual based on your situation and quality of tenants.