Buying first home in CT, but as a rental property. Smart move?

[Braxton Parr]

Hello! My name is Braxton. I'm currently looking to buy my first home in Connecticut. I currently live in the DC, Maryland and Virginia area, but it is way too expensive out here. On top of that, I have about 8 months left on my lease.

In order to make some income on the side, I wanted to buy a home in the New Haven, CT area no more than 325K — and primarily market to college students. My biggest concern is I'm wondering how this will affect my down payment since I wouldn't be actually living in the home.

Would love to connect with anybody that knows the CT market or overall has solid real estate experience.