Student debt usually come with a low interest rate, a rate you should should be able to beat with even a decent investment thereby making it more worthwhile to invest and just pay the minimum on your student loans.Of course, there's also a mental aspect to this.

It is already leased and cashflowing, all new major systems except the roof which is 4 years old.

They are the oldest properties, in lower class neighborhoods, sometimes without tile roofs or stucco siding. 

He earned quick money as a wholesaler, and I have a house to keep)Rehab cost: $20k (vinyl floor, interior paint, new dual pane windows, new toilets and bathroom vanities, lights, new landscape, new AC condenser, all done by handyman, spent some extra money for minor plumbing and electric jobs, hydro jet sewer lines, clean up attic (had mice), added some insulationTime spent: 3 weeks (two handymen for the first two weeks, one for the last week)Value after repair: probably around $440kJobs still need to be done later: some dryrots, roof work (it's tile roof, roof doctor quoted me $9k, handyman said probably $5k, home inspector said $15k you can get a new shingle roof.

Others were much more diligent in this aspect and required Letters from your CPA ( which is how my few syndicated investments went).

Don't forget to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations; hiring a local attorney can help navigate the legal aspects.

(Obviously in Vegas we have zero siding or roof expenses so your mileage may vary.)Good luck. 

It seems as if the options for owner-occupiers of three-unit properties are pretty limited, especially if the building has a flat roof. 

It is regional, but I find some of the newer homes where I am have more open living areas, but the bedrooms are smaller as are some of the lot sizes.To get a new mortgage, your rates are likely going to go up, but if the new home was well built, you shouldn't have to worry about things like new windows or a new roof for a while.

Like all aspects of investing, the most important step is to do your research on the home and tenant.Review their original applications to ensure the current residents meet all qualifications.