If you have a chunk of money to get going I'd personally buy the biggest thing you can if you don't I think house hacking into a 4 plex is great. 

Sure, all channels can work, even seller financing or foreclosures, but in my experience, a well-connected agent can uncover hidden gems that often outperform the trickier avenues.Since the post is still fresh, I’m curious.. do you foresee other potential add ons that might elevate the returns even further, like corporate housing partnerships or short-term seasonal leases?

@Yooni ChoiFor a first property, $100/month in cash flow might not be ideal, but it’s acceptable, especially with a house hack.

Be careful not to violate any Fair Housing laws during this process.

I did a search on the forums and insurance seems like it could be a major problem.I have houses in two different LLC’s in Texas and insurance is not an issue at all.

If you only have a homeowners policy, and something happens like a fire or a guest gets injured, and the insurance company finds out you're renting out the house, you're in deep trouble. 

That being said, if you're 23 and you don't own a home, I really do recommend starting with a house hack as you don't need the 25% down capital to get started and you kill 2 birds with one stone by getting a rental and having a roof over your head. 

The house was vacant for 5 years with a new roof (5 years ago). 

What would be a good actionable for you now is to visit open houses in areas you think you like and starting talking with Listing Agents at those homes.

I'm looking to buy a house in the St Pete market & have read zoning regulations, articles about STR (anything less than 30 days) and have discussed with my realtor.