Although what I'm stepping into isn't regulated by NAR or anyone, it is my goal and outright intentions to be as truthful and as ethical as I can, not just on a business level but on a personal level.

If you can buy at a price that works even during a crash-level rent drop then you can make hay on LTRs when times are good.Lubbock and the area south/southwest of it is fantastic and appreciating fast.

I'd find a way to get to know him on a personal level, take him out to eat, and ask lots of questions.Also, why this 24 unit apartment complex?

You can get in with a low down payment, gain PM experience from the ground level, and leverage that experience to purchase more MFRs in lower priced markets (i.e.

I had sent the seller an email stating I wanted it handled at the lowest possible level; however, he felt otherwise.

They offer levels of safety because they offer other "exit" plans.I agree that The Book on Estimating Rehab Costs, together with the calculator in the tools section can be very helpful. 

I started investing at the beginning of 2021.  I've done a few deals but feel like i'm missing opportunities because there is still a lot I don't understand.  It's easy to see what investors are paying for properties ...

This keeps the playing field even since I am incentivized to accept other tenants who I don't have to pay the fee so this keeps their clients on a level playing field. 

I purchased this home and later found out later that there were not a permit pulled for the lower level being finished.

I’ve used @Yonah Weiss and his firm gave me a high level estimated Cost Segregation to see tax savings before we spent a dime.