A 1%- and 2%- rule property is hugely better in California compared to Costa Rica because you can leverage in California and you can't in Costa Rica (notwithstanding the fact the risk is higher in Costa Rica too so you'd actually expect a higher return there).

Now most of the time we don't see househackers/investors use in-house or portfolio loans from banks because sometimes they have more restrictive guidelines and higher fees for holding it which might cause the numbers not to work or for the deal not to go through entirely. 

@Peter Tverdov it depends on going wages in your marketplace.I would imagine labor costs are much higher in NJ than in MI.

The purchase to cash flow ratio is much higher than majority of the states in the US but again not the only states.If you need any help or want to talk more REI feel free to reach out I have done a ton of business in both states and can walk you through pretty much anything.

If they only make $2000 and know their income has to be $3000 or higher to qualify, they can apply elsewhere and save the $30 application fee.

You will be able to get higher leverage, better rates, etc once you have more experience!

Other than the additional transaction costs, I would think it's a solid play overall for higher risk deals.Very interesting discussion. from my knowledge and then advice.. if the borrower signs the dil at closing they have already transfered it back.. it does not need to be recorded to be valid its valid the date its signed so there is that..

The higher rates and no point options hopefully are temporary for you until you are able to show a 2 year history of 1099 income, refinance early in 2026 once you have completed your 2025 returns. 

Of course I always approach the market with a higher rent value. 

Yes, you can do DIY, but it does come at a higher risk of IRS challenge as @Michael Plaks mentions.