I'm a full time agent and investor in the area that works a ton with VA buyers and i LOVE helping people house hack, it is definitely my favorite strategy and my passion helping people do it.

Until you get better clarity on those answers, you are more likely gambling instead of investing.

Simple appreciation is a gamble because you have no control over it, so don't consider it.

If you are looking to do MTR, Portland is my favorite market.

OR is this something you would take to your favorite contractor and ask them to come up with a plan? 

So in reality you are ALWAYS gambling in the stock market, yes, even with those big names that seem inconceivable to every drop and ESPECIALLY with those because most are so shocked and in disbelief when it occurs that it's only realized after your left with pennies on the dollar because you waited out a recovery that was never coming. 3rd: MATH and leverage.     

Lessons from some of my favorite books: (Which is your favorite?)

What are your favorite electronic resources for screening?

They are my favorite, because they are cheap and snap together higher, which better protects from splashing water.

Cashflow is guaranteed, Appreciation is gambling, blah blah blah.