Our long term goal is to acquire multiple multi-family properties over the next 5-10 years, and to eventually trade up for an apartment complex.

I'll probably start multiple threads over the next few days to keep things organized. 

As far as live and flip then rent you need to know if your income will support multiple loans on properties producing market rents in your area, this will have a big impact on the viability of your strategy.

I definitely agree that being desperate for tenants in order to lower your vacancy rate is generally not a good option as the level of uncertainty and potential losses can be huge as it only takes a minority to impact other tenants who are paying good value for money on your rental properties. 

@Syrica Brown use a platform like rentalutions or cozy - It will help you screen tenants, it will post your property on multiple websites and lots more. 

Personally I avoid south Dallas for multiple reasons - but I have a good friend that all he does is invest in South Dallas properties.

For example, have them provide the funding to close on the 4-plex and while you're living there (rent free because you're managing the property for them) your social life isn't impacted.

Dear fellow bigger pockets investors, I am purchasing a 3-unit multiple family in Union County, NJ.

Find multiple with the same entity and you have a cash buyer.

I am looking at places that are recently renovated, to well maintained, to needing significant work in multiple areas (anywhere in greater DMV).