Newbie looking to house hack in NYC metro area/NJ

[Will Reynolds]

Starting my house hacking research, but can't seem to find any properties (duplex/multi) that could come close to the 1 or 2% rule or the 50% rule, as well as near mass transportation. This would be with FHA loan and mortgage insurance. I've been looking primarily in the East Orange/Bloomfield/Newark areas which are still pretty rough along the edges.

Is this market simply too bloated/competitive for a starting investor?