Since these actions are very state specific, and involve an understanding of esoteric features of civil law, it’s vital that your friend engage the services of an attorney specializing in ASSET PROTECTION and licensed to practice in the state in question.  

Small multifamily usually beats a SFH because multiple units help cover the mortgage, while extra bedrooms typically boost rent more than extra bathrooms (within reason).That’s why many beginners gravitate to Midwest markets, lower entry prices, solid rental demand, and a much better chance to break even or cash flow while you build experience and equity.

Boom multiple income streams. 

Give updates on properties you’ve looked at or analyzed to keep your audience engaged, so when they stumble upon a potential situation, you are the first one they think of.Good luck! 

But I can't control every element of the neighborhoods I'm in, and I'm in those neighborhoods every day as a known quantity, the handyman landlord who owns multiple properties in the area.

.” - We speak and email multiple times over the next 6 weeks, but do not receive approval to move forward with repairs

Engaging in forums, attending workshops, and participating in local real estate meetups can also be incredibly valuable.

Since you're using a VA loan, you can't waive the appraisal protection, which can make your offer feel a bit weaker to a seller in a multiple-offer situation next to a similar conventional offer.

Or you could reinvest in multiple smaller properties.

And it does not even have to be your own fault: repositioning a MF is not easy, renovation cost can explode in an unexpected way, contractors stand you up and run with your down payment leaving you with unrentable units, negative cash flow, leading to NOI loss, now you are bleeding cash and the property value does not support the loan anymore...Start with a few 1-4 family units, build a portfolio, there is a lot for you to learn in multiple categories.