We have a lender saying we cant use cash as a down payment for a house, and that we would have to distribute the money to family/friends bank accounts then get them to wire the funds to the the lender.

Investment Info:Small multi-family (2-4 units) buy & hold investment.

I plan to find and vet a small and cheap single family home that would cashflow in a traditional real estate buy and hold method (find a good deal). 2.

Single family homes in the country.

Investment Info:Single-family residence other investment.

It seems like you're starting an exciting adventure in real estate with a great goal.I hope everything goes well as you work towards making money for your family and helping those in need.

You need to consider the safety and welfare of your other tenants (if this is a multi-family unit).  

Condos in the are I am looking are less expensive than single family home (even with the same square footage) but I noticed they do not appreciate as much over time. 

to determine NOI on a brand-new rehabbed single-family property that should not have any operating expenses. 

Investment Info:Small multi-family (2-4 units) buy & hold investment.