I’d strongly recommend networking.

If you're open to looking at some resources here's what I would recommend you start with based on what you've said:1.

All the best to you during your last semester.Househacking is one of the most common routes for new investors in NY.For best returns, I'd recommend focusing on South and Southeast Queens, Central and Southeast Brooklyn, and the Bronx.There are parts of the suburbs (Westchester and Long Island) that have househack opportunities but the property taxes are higher and the commute time to NYC is longer.Abel

Recommend purchasing a primary residence first, ideally a home that needs work in an appreciating neighborhood.

I'd recommend starting with books $10-$20 gets you 90% of the info you need.

I highly recommend starting with a basic househack, easy barrier to entry and gives you a crash course in being a landlord who lives on site.

Quote from @Brook Burns: Thanks so much for the recommendations!

@David Lewis I recommend reading “Long-Distance Real Estate Investing: How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties” - I found it to be very helpful when I got started investing 2.5 years ago.

I am looking for recommendations for best financing options.The owner is considering financing it, but until they agree, I am planning as if they will not do so.The local credit union I use, who is very investor friendly, is unable to lend on properties larger than 4 units right now. 

Rewey: There is a video (free on YouTube) by Attorney Jeff Watson titled "How To Do a Subject To And Do It Right" that I highly recommend.