Multiplex properties - as far as I can tell - tend to be in "bad" neighborhoods or lower income areas.

It tends to make potential buyers uneasy when tenants are unwilling to cooperate, and I've found that simply being up front with them almost guarantees smooth communication and cooperation between all parties.

The du/tri/quadplexes are rare, and they tend to be in rough neighborhoods with unreliable tenants.

Several of my colleagues feel it is a waste to do so, considering the comps speak for themselves on the ARV and we have the contractor bid for repairs; but I tend to disagree.

Welcome to Anywhereville, USA.Yes, lower priced housing tends to be in the not so nice areas, but that's not always the case.

That would certainly help vet the real investors from the scam artists and the liars.Yup fishing for private money on the internet is going to lead you squarly to all the scammers/ bad English/ just looking to rip you off or like you said all HAT no CATTLE.However we don't know what your offering.. private lenders that are real get pitched a lot of deals.. some how folks tend to think private lenders are happy with 6 to 8% or something less than hard money.. 

I have purchased buildings of this size (19 unit, 20 unit), and in my experience the better areas tend to have rents more in the 800-1200 range.

They tend to have the best rates.

Turns out interior designers don't tend to much care for deadlines.

HELOC's dont usually require cash reserves but there are some HELOC's that do.2) personal preference and goals - "begin with the end in mind,"3) active income versus passive income - the age old debate - again tend to your personal situation you know best what you need short term and long term.