Kind of like how MSRP is meaningless for many consumer goods.

I've been trying to help him figure out his next move but I don't think I've been very helpful as my knowledge of these kinds of transactions is slim.

If they are totally uncooperative, which because of possible litigation is understandable, search of l/t court for your location will show if there was action(s) against them.If the prospect is still living there, ask to do a home visit to see exactly how they live. 

That's your maximum value for money.This is the perfect sort of place to do this kind of small-scale rehab with.

What kind of written guarantees will the charity offer you?

Depends what kind of cash flow you are looking for and consider good.

I am getting pulled in all kinds of directions with really knowing if I can purchase a 4 unit as my primary residence with a FHA loan and be able to use the rental income as part of my DTI?

Kind of like an insurance company, they use the pool of money from their customers to pay out in the case one of them runs into issues.

Thank you I appreciate the kind words

I am no expert but based on what I can see prices are rising, so I will assume that we are in some kind of hot market.