Hi, 

I would like to bid on a property. However, my real estate agent told
me that because of the number of units they (seller) is requiring 20%
of the total value of the property down.
Therefore, I was wondering, what would be my options in order to purchase
anything greater than 4 units without having to come up with cash upfront. 

Are there banks that could finance more than 5 units with zero, or low
down payments?

What is the most number of units that a bank will finance
with 0% percent down ?

Thank you, I really apreciate your time. 

Allan.

Allan,
This is a free comment, not an "answer" to your question, which only a
G-A Researcher with a blue name can post.

As an erstwhile banker, I believe that a bank will insist on a down
payment regardless of the number of units.  Oh, if you can provide
other security, a lien on a time deposit or on another property, a
bank might give you 100% financing on the unit(s) you intend to bid
for, but only you would know if this is a possibility in your case.

Let me explain a bit.  Regardless of the total amount of the loan or
the number of units, the mortgage loan will be secured by a lien on
whatever is bought/financed.  Like it or not, the bank has to
anticipate what could happen if the loan is not repaid  - foreclosure,
an auction of the property.
In such a situation, there is a large risk that the property would not
sell for the purchase price.  Thus the bank wants to limit its credit
risk to 80% of the purchase price (with a 20% down payment).

Sorry not to be able to give you a more optimistic view.  If you have
any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
 Regards, Myoarin