Also factor in if the rents jumped a lot and if that would lead to a vacancy, which will cost you more in the short term. 

Here's what you need to know about qualifying and managing costs, including realtor fees and other expenses.Why Germany?

Covering the mortgage isn’t an issue, but I’m considering factors like: Multi-Family: House hacking would help offset costs right away, but I’d likely need to put money into renovations upfront.Single-Family: Easier move-in with no immediate renovations needed, plus potentially lower tenant turnover once I rent it out For those who have been in a similar situation, what did you choose and why?

Consider this the cost of your education.

Renovations can cost more than you expect, add 10% to your overall number.

Purchase price: $90,000 Cash invested: $55,000 Triplex in SE Cleveland (D+ neighborhood)Purchased for 90 and saw 105 for valuation. 25% down plus closing costs and unit repairs has led to about 50-60k going into the deal.

Without this workout, the down payment requirements, current levels of interest rates and cost of the transaction would not be incentivizing enough to for investment. 

If I could deploy the same amount of up front cost to purchase an up and running portfolio.My calculations tell me that I can be cash flowing much more if I spend the money on a portfolio or complex.

Unless it is a new build, and it comes with purchase warranties are an extra cost and may or may not even be executed when needed depending on the circumstances. 

Connecting with experienced investors or joining local real estate groups can provide valuable insights and help you avoid costly mistakes.