Unit is more aged features, worn out carpet, something to that effect.

Size, purchase price, renovation history, and your tax situation matter just as much as the asset type.Where we tend to see the strongest results are properties with a decent basis and some complexity, such as multifamily, self-storage, medical, light industrial, and even short-term rentals if they’re large enough.

To a commercial lender since I started DSCR was a more complex calculation for commercial loans.

I do not use nearly as much of the security features since I don't live there anymore. 

Plan to build another small (approx 25 units) apartment complex next year.

In a market like Huntsville, the MF numbers can look attractive on paper, but I think it’s still worth underwriting a few duplexes and 4-plexes conservatively and seeing whether the added complexity is actually compensated with better returns and downside protection.

Update ive actually found a apartment complex that looks promising so I am looking into doing a cross collateral dscr loan using my free and clear SFR as the down payment. 

That’s not just them being conservative, operating a larger multifamily can be complex, and if someone doesn’t know what they’re doing, it’s very easy to end up with unexpected capital calls, debt issues, or tax bills that wipe out the upside.Multifamily also usually isn’t how investors get their start unless they already have capital.

Is it control concerns, partnership risk, legal complexity, or simply that most education is framed around owning alone or syndicating a 50+ unit apartment building?

For 1–3 units, it can absolutely be enough for leasing if you’re comfortable screening, showing, and handling paperwork yourself.Where Zillow alone starts to fall short is:Screening depth and compliance (fair housing, documentation, consistent criteria)Follow-up speed — good leads go fastMaintenance coordination after lease-upRenewals and rent adjustmentsHandling conflict or enforcementMany investors self-manage leasing through Zillow but still hire a PM for full operations — especially once they’re out of state or above a few doors.The real dividing line isn’t the platform — it’s complexity.