It was painless and I got in done in about 3 weeks with minimal paperwork.

I have 0 direct experience, 0 RE-specific connections, and minimal deployable capital.

Any tips on minor touch up to spruce it up with minimal spend ?

If everyone filled out the application, then I would say that they did not meet the minimal criteria and repeat what was in the ad. 

My lender will only do 70% LTV cash out refi on MF properties and that is based on the lower of the appraised value or the total investment costs.If I was to change my strategy to just buy and hold, make minimal repairs and keep renting the deal may look better.

I can live with minimal cash flow with no money in the property, but I own it.I agree, the properties do seem to have been taken care of, but I don't know how well because I can't see them.

Is a minimal 6 months of holding period required for refinancing?

Yeah, only going to put the minimal criteria from now on

I have also considered new construction homes (roughly same price as other homes on the market, and it will be brand new so it will have minimal/no repairs and can charge on the upper end for rent?)

West Philly is a fantastic area for that due to the multiple exit strategies the area commands, with lower entry prices and high rental values it is a perfect area to pick up a 3/1, do minimal rehab, and cashflow.