@Lloyd SilverI agree with Brit that the area investment environment is strong.

We received a reasonably strong offer on the property and negotiated to $345,000 with $3,000 in seller paid concessions.

I realize that "minimal work" implies I can't force too much appreciation so I realize the emphasis really needs to be on finding a good deal -- hence why I'm interested in short sales.I was unsure if FHA financing could be used on short sale properties so thanks for that information. 

Use indeed.com with radius set to 5mi anbd compare areas for best jobs being offered today as a predictor of being a strong area. 

I would then help educate them that in 08-12 multi-family asset classes were very strong.

He recommended @Jason Marcordes who has a strong management presence there. 

My question is do these have strong demand?

I have a strong work ethic and a ton of energy but would like to channel it in a different direction.

I have been told that typically when the real estate market is strong, rehab/construction workers are easily kept busy and it's harder to find the good ones for good prices and available enough.

I strongly prefer mortgage brokers for a couple reasons: relationships, communication, access to multiple lending options vs. just bank lending vehicles, and while there are plenty of good bankers out there, I feel like the best brokers I know are just hungrier and more on your side (bankers work for/answer to the bank)...Best of luck,Mathew