What I gathered from one of their meetings is that to go from 3 units to 4 units would require certain alarm and sprinkler systems to be installed to meet fire code.

I would add the 1 important factor of building an accurate correct pricing strategy, one that leaves enough "meat on the bone" so it is worth the time and risk of the flipper. 

It's like gathering firewood -- Do it until you think you have enough -- then do twice as much. 

Maybe I could gather some ideas about my next move.. ideally, (I think) at this point I'd like to get myself into a duplex and rent out one of the units.

Ah thanks, yea I'm trying to connect with a friend of a friend who has 2 properties there to hopefully gather some of his insight. 

@Wayne Basker- thanks - make sure your loan pre approval is  accurate and  updated  ( even if you updated it  within the past   30 days - rates  might be  different / higher ...if your  recent  loan pre approval update is recent ( within the past week - then thats  fine  ...but stay in contact with your lender  regarding possible properties and  current rates ...also  if you  consider a condo or townhome -  watch the  HOA dues as these can affect  your  qualifying ratios 

I’d be glad to connect you with some property managers and lenders to talk with if you would like to explore those options and gather more information.

Hey BP,Can someone recommend a batch skip trace company that tells the last time a property sold along with accurate emails and phone numbers that have been tested ?

Shows you're positioned to move on the deal, if their valuation is accurate, plus a little extra.

@ Brenden Mitchum @Nathan G.I will start calling the government agency first to gather some information.