There are a lot of things to consider, I'm unsure if this is normal for this time of year - other experiences and insight from local investors would be greatly appreciated.  

Ask how many units they manage and how much experience they have.

Even if the deal doesn't go through, sharing your experience and tactic will be valuable information for myself and the entire BP community. 

You’re financially protected more with more units/doors.Of course more income.Cons of larger multi family are barriers of entry costs to acquire, operate, and experience.

I would stay away from long term contracts and pay by the month to start if you are using a service and then after you have real world experience with it, you can sign on for a year for the discount.

Get in and our of 3 projects as fast you can and now you have the experience and some profit and now the terms and programs get better for you and you will have gained some knowledge and know exactly what to expect.Just keep in mind that projects have a life cycle of 4 - 6 months. 

If so which ones and what was your experience like?

How many years of experience?

Now a landlord (and architect), I wouldn't build out the space without the second stair since it really is a safety issue/liability (especially in case of a fire) if anything were to happen.Full excerpt of building code below:According to the Chicago building code on egress requirements, the third story above grade plane within a dwelling unit [which in this case is the duplex-up unit], all the following conditions must be met:1.) the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system2.) the floor area of the story does not exceed 1600 sq ft3.) the dwelling unit has an exit that discharges directly to the exterior at the level of exit discharge.Your third story attic space is unlikely to exceed 1600 sq ft, but you'll probably find the sprinkler system to be cost-prohibitive.

You don't need to know everything to get started; you need a foundation to build on and the rest will come through experience and then refining your education.You can build a basic understanding of investing in 3-6 months.