Addicted to the process not the end result! 

The biggest reason I would advocate for mixed use is for the reasons you mentioned, the leases are longer, but also the general "issues" around tenants on the residential side don't come into play as much or at all. 

But the VAs just don't work.

Made sure to check the ledger and T12 to ensure that the tenant was qualified correctly before purchasing the property.

One more tip hit town homes and condo communities in the area.

@Matthew Strackjust to confirm, the funds you'll be using for your investment purchase are borrowed?

basically if anyone has any tips when it comes to researching plots of land in order to make the right purchase i would greatly appreciate it get with a realtor. we underwrite land at no more than 10% of after built value. in our market we build under the average new build value which is about 515k. we like to be around 420-450k and smaller footprint about 1500 sq ft with attached garages. we build close to urban core where everyone wants to live and net migrations match up. but suburban is fine. if you give more context I can help but in most markets land is a buyers market. most people aren't looking at it or buying it. 

Everywhere I turn all I see are pitches for affordable housing and the same (not so) compelling arguments regurgitated by syndicators, capital raisers, brokers etc. for the investment strategy....strong returns...lower volatility....supply (huh?)

Watch for the name to pop up at the bottom and choose it.

Congrats on the family and the decision to relocate.