Hey DenisI have commented a lot about arbitrage in a general sense here, however I believe I am uniquely qualified to answer here as I live and operate about 65 units in this specific market.In 2016 I got my STR start arbitraging a Gulf Front mansion that was in foreclosure and I got a great deal on. 

This family member does not live in the condo and it's valued upwards of 1M.

Good morning,Bigger Pockets Forums, Today I’m doing the inspection of what I hope becomes my first real estate investment.I spent the last 2 months reading, listening to podcasts, talking to other investors, combing through listings, and visiting properties in Baltimore near where I live.  

I guess I could do some work-arounds -- maybe reserve one unit in the first purchase for use as an AirBnb, and reserve my own time in it when needed - instead of claiming it as a primary.Are either of you (or anyone) familiar with a finance product/loan that will allow me to purchase under $150,000 (w/ strong credit) and do much of my own work and live-in a portion as a primary residence?  

If that were the case, I would sell my house and live in a tent because it's less expensive. 

Lower land and building costs mean higher returns on investment, and there’s a quiet but consistent need for quality housing as remote work and cost-of-living shifts draw people away from cities.

There is a perfect recipe brewing where inventory is at an all time low, with interest rates significantly higher than we're use to, capitalized by the insane economic struggles that are going on in our every day lives.... 

I live in Kansas.

You do not have to live in the home in order to do that!

If they're evaluating other properties and you have a good social presence that gives them peace of mind and a good sense that they'll have a nice living experience, that could be the tipping point if they're considering a similar property.