However to reiterate here're a few books on multifamily that should help you gain knowledge in the field: David Lindahl "multifamily millions" and "emerging markets" Steve Berges "the complete guide to buying and selling apartment building"Ken McKelroy "the ABC's of real estate"Also, if you want to start close to home, you can always look at the neighboring PA area - looks like you're very close.Additionally, I suggest you go to some meetups/clubs that concentrate on multifamily. 

Given that they currently share utilities, could I argue that the two sets of tenants are renting out individual floors of one apartment?

@Eric Adobo Can't argue with that, brother.

For example, if your published standards stated:600 Credit ScoreNo EvictionsNo FeloniesThen applicants could theoretically argue that they meet all of your requirements and you can't deny them housing for something that's not required by your own published standards.

I am guessing you are referring to me being a "newer" investor, and I wouldn't argue that.  

I think I joined initially in 2013 and argued, had confrontations, and flat out told a bunch of people to go .... off somewhere and meant it.

My father is 78 and told me when the guy told him this he didn’t say anything because he’s just too old to be arguing.

As much as I bash bitcoin, it is hard to argue that $1000 invested in bitcoin in 2010 has given way better return that stocks or real estate.

Once it's sent, the ball is in his court to accept, argue, or file suit.

If you compare the metro data, Syracuse is slightly "better" but not enough to do out-of-town investing.One other note about Syracuse: I would argue that it a totally different class of market than Philly and Minneapolis.