Hi Pete,I suggest you look at places that have growing long term economic activity.

Our insurance 'crisis' is real, but on the mend. 8 new carriers were approved last week, but until that settles down and we see where interest rates go this summer, I would be conservative with your numbers. 

There are many factors that impact macro-economic situations.

Degrees in finance or economics offer a solid basis in investment techniques, market trends, and financial analysis.

I don't see the economic indicators that lead me to believe the Fed is going to drop rates any time soon in a significant way. 

HDQ relocations to Texas and other economic data.https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/business/HQ_Relocations_...

Despite hopes for rate reductions to alleviate these challenges, banks are constrained in their ability to provide favorable terms for refinancing, leaving investors facing the prospect of contributing more equity or selling properties at discounts.Jerome Powell's Outlook and Market Dynamics: Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's cautious approach reflects the delicate balance between economic stability and inflationary risks.

I think this is a big reason why you see REI's having problems finding deals, and blaming it on the interest rate, or the global economic market at that time. 

@Orane JacobsWhen thinking about venturing into a new market for house hacking using a VA Loan, it's important to look at various factors like the cost of housing, how much demand there is for rentals, the job market, economic conditions, how fast the population is growing, what amenities are available, and the resources for managing properties.

The solar will only be there to offset common areas, however so not sure it would make economic sense to go that route for a small utility offset.