Looking for First Property on Long Island (House Hack!)

[Vincent Villani]

Hello everyone!

It's been a while since I've been on here. I've found that this community is an excellent network of active people, who are enthusiastic about interacting with one another and helping out. I was really hoping to get some feedback here from anyone who is experienced on Long Island, NY.

Basically, I'm currently renting an apartment in Long Beach, NY. I love the area. This is not only because of it's nightlife, food selection, and scenic beach, but also because of its proximity. I am a field sales representative for a medical device company, and the territory I'm responsible for is quite large: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island. In this case, Long Beach serves me well - it's an hour from everywhere and central to my territory. My lease is coming to an end shortly, and I have made the mental decision to no longer be a tenant. It's a waste!!!

My goal here is to find either:

• A 2-family unit, or
• A high ranch / raised ranch and convert to a 2-family

Aka the "House Hack", I intend on financing through FHA and renting out the 2nd apartment while I live in one. The problem is...finding a rational deal on Long Island seems difficult. Ideally, I'd love to find something in Nassau due to its proximity. I hear Long Beach, Rockville Center, Lynbrook, Garden City, and closer towns are great. However, they are very expensive from what I've been researching, and Long Beach poses a definite flood risk. Are there any areas you might recommend? Any to avoid?

I've heard Patchogue is a great up-and-comer also, however it is very far East. The deals actually look good there, but that means I'd be driving almost 2 hours to Staten Island accounts. Very much in need of any advice here. It would be sincerely appreciated!