Every social event becomes an opportunity to either meet a new client, or meet someone who may refer you to a new client.

Obviously you wouldn't be able to get accurate market analysis to make comparisons, especially if the samples are completely fictitious, but some general reference points should be enough to make an educated decision on whether a deal is feasible or not. 

I have similar situationsI usually only refer the vendors within my network. my own vendor is outside of my REI network. i only started to refer him bc he and I have reached a level of trust I can refer him.my fears are:1. he can't handle multiple jobs as well as he thinks he can2. what if he doesn't do a good job for my referal, or there is an issue and conflict. reflects bad on all of us.

And glad to hear that we could take a necessity item and turn it into something interesting!  

@Victoria Avery Thanks for the reference.

Are you referring to putting Earnest Money in escrow?  

Yes, you have not only the 6% commission but usually some other items when you sell.  

Cap Ex 5% - I figure this is a minimum to put away for the big items you know are coming...eventually.Management 10% - While I plan to manage the place myself, I also want to be able to hold indefinitely and know that if I take my REI where I plan to I will eventually remove myself from property management.Assuming the same 25% down and financing with a  30 yr fixed @ 5%, I get ~$120 monthly cash flow (not even my minimum of $100 per unit).

Would anyone happen to have reference for an investor-friendly Realtor in the Greenville, SC area?

Final item would be is to have a meeting with the city people and see if you can do anything to use the full 4 appts with four meters.