Planning my process

[Augusta Owens]

Good morning All,

I've been real estate curious to the point of obsession for about a month now, but in that time I've started to develop my tentative plans. I thought it prudent to run some questions by the plethora of savvy investors in this community.

I plan to begin now the process of finding a multi family property to house hack. I will most certainly use the VA loan for this first purchase as well as my benefits from my 100% VA disability rating.

1) Should I focus on duplex since they're most likely less expensive in my area in category A or B properties, or aim for more units?

2) Is there an income gap between going after 2 units as opposed to 4?

3) Is there an easy way to understand what price range I should stick to in my area, and should I focus on the best market or focus on the best price for properties?

4) Once I've lived in the property for the obligatory year, is that typically long enough to refinance and use HELOC towards my next property?

I have a truck full of questions, but these 3 specifically keep my brain awake at night right now. Thank you for your guidance.