Struggle Getting 1st property. Advice?

[Tim Kaminski]

I am a new investor, trying to acquire my first multifamily property to house hack. My plan is to use FHA financing to do this but I'm having problems finding property. I live and work in Tampa, Fl and most Sellers do not accept anything other than cash and conventional. The properties that may accept FHA are in areas that are less than favorable for me to live in. Tampa seems like a market that is very hot and has inflated prices.

I want to house hack before I start to look in other markets that I wouldn't be able commute to work from.  Reducing my living expenses through house hacking seems like the best way to save money and slowly build wealth.

I have been looking on the MLS through realtors but not having much luck. Should I start looking off market by driving for dollars? My only issue with this is even if I do happen to find an Owner who wants to sell, it still has to be a property 1.) In my price range 2.) At a purchase price that is able to cashflow 3.) Meets my criteria.

I'm just feeling a bit discouraged with the lack of FHA properties on the market and at everything at inflated prices. Am I looking in the wrong spot? What am I doing wrong?

Tim