That smaller end apartment building is a great way to learn on the job and build confidence with commercial lender.

Because the industry has been a bit overlooked, there isn't the same demand for mobile home parks as there is for apartment buildings.

There has been so much condo converting in Cambridge & Somerville that small apartment buildings are going to be worth a significant amount of money in the near future.

I purchased a 6-unit apartment building one year ago. 

I am currently in the middle of making my first deal with a business partner back in Michigan on a 24 unit apartment complex.

If you believe there will be a bunch of price appreciation over the next 10 years you could could 1031 your current 4plex in to another in the same complex and have current and future taxes. 

Going forward please find a dog sitter etc.I have put packages left on the step into the apartment for tenants.If that same tenant was asking me for something every month, then I would push back and not keep doing favors. 

I currently live in an apartment in Appleton, WI paying $720 rent + $42 internet + 40 utilities per month ($802 total/month).  

My main challenge as a part-time investor is being lower on their buyer's list but that just logical business.

If you're serious about investing $50k or more in apartment deals then you may also want to purchase Michael Blanks's Syndicated Deal Analyzer.