In a world of open-source materials and knowledge follows vanilla investment strategies - used by the masses. To achieve superior risk-adjusted returns you need to find your edge.

Centralized Asset Roll-up Model — strategy in which an investor buys multiple assets (typically smaller in size) in close proximity to one another to achieve the following benefits;

1. Diversification — multiple buildings decrease vacancy risk and capex risk.
2. Property management — since these assets are centralized you can leverage a single property manger across the entire portfolio. Achieving better economics and service. This is a major value-add to the other small units you're competing with. For example - say you purchase an 8 unit deal in Dallas. PM groups will typically charge a 10-12% fee vs. the 6-8% fee charged on larger properties (50+ units). The economics don't make sense, thus eliminating tons of potential deals. If you do find a deal that works with the higher fee than you have to worry about service. In regards to service. A PM that manages dozens of assets is less likely to manage a one off 8 unit deal to the highest level.
3. Market share — ability to dominate in area which comes with tons of rental upside.
4. Negotiation — If you can find a seller with several assets. Leverage the ability to purchase their entire portfolio in exchange for per unit discounts. Seller's w/ several small assets will jump at the opportunity to liquidate in a single transaction. Cheaper and less time consuming for both parties.
5. Competition — shift competitors from the professionals to mom and pop's. Let's be honest, if you're using this model than capital is not an issue. While your capital akin are chasing the big shiny deals you can compete with mom & pop investors -- more easily winning the deal.

This strategy is geared towards experienced, capital rich operators. If done effectively these operators can create value by implementing large scale operations via small individualized assets. Therefore eliminating risks, costs, and competition.