As a loan originator it's (fortunately for me) not me being asked to drive all over the world to Kingdom Come showing folks like the below 20 different properties and writing a bunch of lowballs that will get tossed in the trash (tarnishing my local reputation in the process), but I can see where they are coming from.

Baklersfield is one of those places that has a reputation for extreme ups and downs throughout the market cycles.

Then see who people trust, who has a solid reputation, and who you like.  

I want my reputation to be the guy who gets deals done.

The last thing I want to do is refer someone who could potentially butt heads with them and therefore jeopardize my reputation...I've seen it happen.But to the original question, yes 80% is out there with portfolio loans.

The way I see it, I only got two choices either buy multi unit property through a reputable turnkey operator or participate in syndication.If you're in my situation, which direction would you recommend?

Make a good impression and think about making contacts and how to further them.Wholesalers have a dodgy reputation in some circles.

If the company has been in business a while and is reputable, wouldn't that be good enough?

Highly reputable and experienced mortgage professionals usually do the best job. 

 Hi Jonathan, well said, I am pleased that Lydia reached out and stopped me in my tracks from tarnishing my beginner reputation.