Build or Invest?

[Anastasia Monro]

Should I build a duplex, triplex, quad, etc., for house hacking, or should I invest in a multi-family property and renovate it into apartments? I know many variables exist, but I am conflicted about whether to build or invest. The land is going for affordable prices in my area. The main pro for building would be the ability to control where I live while living in the house, whereas most multifamily homes are within city limits and not my preferred choice of dwelling.