It very well could become a large enough investment to be worthwhile, also solving for "unexpected emergencies ", for the most part and would an easy self management situation if you were to live onsite in one of your connected townhomes.

I'd highly recommend house hacking in your local market since you're in one of the highest cost of living areas in the US, especially if you're renting currently and planning on staying in the area for 5-10 years.It sounds sexy to go out and invest out of state for your first property.

You have multiple people living in each others spaces.

I live in Portland  Maine , I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.. thank you.

My wife and I just closed on a duplex in Oakland, but the basement/garage was already converted into a separate living space with a bedroom and bathroom.

It is live and able to be edited or changed anytime.

I live in the Newark area.

I actually live Pinellas County.  

I was thinking maybe Houston because my boyfriend lives there and I’m there a good portion of the year as is, but I’m open to any good market.

Have enough that after you buy the property you still have 6 months of expenses in reserves that you can use for daily living.