I know we could just bundle them into a commercial loan when the time came, but we really aren't looking for more than 20 properties overall and so would prefer to get the best rates we can and lock them in for 30 years.  

We worked out a creative custom financing deal with Providence Bank to acquire 2  x 4 unit buildings by leveraging our equity in another building.

And some platforms have more of a reputation for this than others.In my opinion the first thing to start with is at the platform level (or fund level if you're like me and prefer them to the platforms), and look at the uncured default rate.

That lets the person know that they probably won't get it unless you have a unit that no one wants...in which case Section 8 is probably something you should be looking at as a potential customer base. 

Also do you prefer college students or families to rent to? 

I tried using a few others and quickly found out why these guys are the preferred option for most of the local investors here. 

If anyone is arguing for or against if its listed or not, its just their preference or a sound bite that they are repeating. 

CA is great for appreciation and there is definitely going to be continued long term growth, etc...but I’d prefer a lower cost and higher yielding investment personally.What are your goals?

Lower operating costs are definitely a consideration I take into account when I’m looking at property, and I think most would agree that a house with $0 electricity bill is preferable to one with a bill. 

@Dayne WintersHoboken (preferably Downtown),Jersey City (Anywhere off the "PATH" Train, note the Waterfront, Downtown, and Newport are nicer than Journal Square)Manhattan (anywhere really but the nicest areas are anywhere south of about 70th street)Queens (Long island city, or Astoria near a subway stop)Brooklyn (Downtown, Heights, Carroll Gardens, Park slope, Williamsburg, there are others but that's just the short list)Since your question is a bit limited I am unsure if this is business or vacation and if it is with children or without.