Every time you might have to do work and maybe have a month empty.

I've done showings, demos, landscaping, and cleaning for an investor for about a year and now I'd like to learn the behind the scenes work and start networking and building relationships with other investors.

One carrot to dangle to him is to have him come back to finish an item, pay him but tell him you will only pay him after he signs the lien waiver (which basically states that he got paid for the work and is responsible for paying all subcontractors). 

If you were my client, you'll see their invoices when I bill you for the work. And

I will need to offer a little under in order to make it work and pass if not accepted.

It's certainly wise to get other bids (3 is plenty) but make sure you have a clear scope of work and a realistic budget. 

With a multi, you will have more leases and tenants so there is more admin work and maintenance to take care of. 

Too many people trying to make rentals work and they haven't done their homework.  

I've started listening to the podcast on my way to work and have learned a ton.

IMO, get estimates for r/r portion of the title work AND for r/r the counter top - - compare and make a choice.