Hi @Douglas Alexander, I've used the VA loan many times, but never for MFR.You can't use it for more than a 4-unit building, so 1-4 is OK, 5 or more... nope.Great plan though to house-hack it.Let me know how your research turns out ref. building from scratch.Could be an interesting idea... build like a 3/2 for your family and 3 more smaller units.Then when you move out, you can rent the 3/2 for more obviously and could earn some good cash flow.

We don't necessarily have a NEED or desire to get something off-market per se.

Short-term renters generally don't like to stay in Cancun because there's not much to do there and the beaches are mainly occupied by the resorts, against which it's hard to compete and there are much nicer areas in the Riviera Maya.Even though I've owned property in the Riviera Maya for many years and have landed in Cancun many times, I've never been to the city and I've never had the desire to go there.

I have had 4 properties in this area and every single one I have had to go through this while some of the neighboring properties were not desirable at all but were left alone because they were owner occupied. 

If pets are allowed by the HOA I would strongly recommend you consider allowing pets as more than 50% of travelers travel with their pets and that will make your priority more desirable.

Show your parents you can both earn money and keep that money.2.

I listen to people who are doing what they are saying, with their own hard earned savings.

Thanks for the information Travis, Yea it seems like the high taxes and insurance premiums are going to make this less desirable. i appreciate your input. 

I'm sure if he was asked even The Donald earned  a few finders fees in his life time.

Until then, I can earn 10+% on Notes.