Or, having to "sneak in" or fit in various calls (be they for purchasing a unit or some issue) from work (which became a bit easier once I had a cell phone).Another main feature is I take relatively good care of my units. 

I've considered crowdfunding, but those all seem to be dominated by larger REITs and less tilted toward small operations. 

To make it worse, even attorneys (I'm not one of them) disagree on how it should be done.BiggerPockets features multiple podcast episodes and articles on this topic, and I suggest you start there.

The apartment features luxury plank flooring, new kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and in-unit washer/dryer.

Would be glad to connect @Dominic Royles!  

Looking at the photos to check on the finishes and features that are getting top dollar (again for either strategy) will provide you a Look Book that could inspire you.As a money-saving idea, visit Stardust Building Materials, which is like a Goodwill version of Home Depot.

The last recommendation (quick hack), if you search the address in Zillow, and click on facts and features, then look beneath property details, on the right, you will see the "Lot" header.

Items that I like to see original but in good condition are wood trim/custom finishes, windows (really love sagging glass in an old English Boroque style sash window with 6-8 panes, but only if they’re in decent condition and not too rotten to be repaired), fireplaces, custom masonry, claw foot tubs, and even tile/bathroom/kitchen features and fixtures as tenants love that old-timey charm (as long as it’s well-cared for and still functional of course).

Account Closed It depends on what an investor is trying to achieve and how they weigh different features of the two different real estate investment vehicles (Syndication vs REIT). 

You're on a forum that features 20+ such professionals specializing in REI and regularly answering questions.