I had no choice in the matter...they use replacement cost as their criteria.

Your investment to join is a very wise choice.

Or maybe a larger security deposit?

You have to work to get in on the larger publications though.I know of some platforms that are in the top 10 in terms of market share that have yet to crack into the top few pages of google, and they've been in business for almost two years.  

It helps to be familiar with vendors too, my rule, ignore small unknown sources for maintenance receipts/charges as many play games, larger reputable companies will have more standardized pricing.If you can determine vacancies from lease files, good, but still be careful for leases that can't be verified by lease receipts/deposits.

Does "soft-story" mainly pertain to larger buildings? 

It also increased the value tremendously because now someone can buy from me without requiring a commercial loan, so the pool of buyers is exponentially larger. (5 units on one tax lots requires a commercial loan). 

If it was easy, they wouldn't be teaching it but doing it on a much larger scale. 

Wasn't me 9 months ago, I haven't yet done much speaking out of our coverage area.The tools mentioned in the posts above are probably your best choice nationally.

Welcome @Sean Erhardt Wise choice joining BP - a great place to learn and network!