However my understanding is that exceptions can be made if unexpected life events happen such as job relocation, eminent domain, marriage, divorce, changes to family size, deployment, imprisonment, bankruptcy etc. 

It is better to have a couple in good areas (not fancy, just good family areas) than a bunch in areas that are rougher. 

., "I will buy at least one single-family home, duplex, triplex, or fourplex before the end of 2019") and then do it.

He's helping me to narrow down a potential multi-family property that I will be house hacking, (the deadline I have given myself to be in it is May).

However, here are a few strategies to explore:Local Real Estate Investor Networks – Join local REI groups, meetups, or Facebook groups where private lenders may be open to funding primary residences under the right terms.Seller Financing – If the seller is open to it, you could negotiate a seller-financed deal where they act as the lender.Community Banks & Credit Unions – Smaller local banks may offer portfolio loans with flexible terms.Wealthy Individuals / Family Offices – High-net-worth individuals sometimes fund private deals, especially if they see strong equity and repayment potential.IRA or Self-Directed Retirement Accounts – Some investors lend money from their self-directed IRAs for real estate transactions.Since you’re willing to pay higher interest for a short-term solution, a contract for deed (land contract) might also be an option, where the seller keeps the title until you pay it off or refinance.Would you like me to connect you with any potential private lenders?

Now, I'm shifting my focus to multi-family properties, particularly in landlord-friendly states.

I am primarily targeting multi-family in the Allentown and Easton PA area. 

We appreciate you giving us the opportunity to review your property.Best regards,"I replied back asking for more specifics, wondering if it is the Milwaukee market, the Wisconsin market, the multi-family market, or the property itself, and I got crickets....At the very least, I should get better customer service explaining why.

Quote from @John Clark: Did you check for houses on the auction list,  or you can check with banks and look for REOs and convert that into a single family home and house hack or turn it into a Airbnb. 

I think having the space available as furnished space for family is a huge bonus and might just recommend not trying to overdo it if you don't need to.Good luck,Chris