In terms of scaling to three to four multi-family properties, you could really start using the equity that you do have to your advantage. 

I knew pretty quickly that he had built the systems and processes to succeed.

However, its downfall (and really what makes it so easy) is that it is a single-entry system. 

We had an accounting system once that necessitated doing this - not ideal, but it keeps the assets and liabilities straight and AP is just an accrual until you pay the bill.

This is not yoursituation, but just to walk through the different thought processesin Holding/Selling that a friend of mine is going through.Helped my friend getinto the Self Storage business and walked him through the wholeprocess from evaluating the market, selecting a site, developing thesite, systems, financing, insurance, etc.

VRBO guests seem to be older and more multi-generational, family-oriented (our target market).

In the multi unit buildings I put on lease "Each tenant shares responsibility for removing snow and salting on both walkways and sidewalk infront of property" and I have them initial before we execute lease.

Another option is house hacking—buying a small multi-unit, living in one, and renting the rest to cut costs.

I am looking to purchase a residential or commercial multi family in the Sherman/Dennison TX area.

That is changing now with the new return to work mandates from the Federal government and Amazon HQ2 and the coming changes from the DC government to make the city more attractive to residents, but the effects of that are slow moving making now still a great time to opportunistically invest in a condo or small multi investment.