Considering your long-term goals, multifamily properties may be a better fit due to their potential for diversification, higher income and economies of scale.

Same if you are maxed out with your DTI currently, you can't take on more debt and qualify for a personal home.Now, keep in mind that interest rates are higher to slow down the economy.  

But since there is myth there that syndication is passive well then LoL … btw if you want to invest at syndication that has no correlation to economy try some alt class like litigation finance or life insurance.

“The 2023 Development Review data is a good indicator of Huntsville’s economy.

The economy looks to be slowly diversifying away from Oil and unemployment is low in OK.

Your economy of work will be MUCH better with that 

That said, if the replacement borrower is stronger, the lender might be open to an assumption. it is as you say, a case by case thing.Investors in residential space are not known to assume loans.

House hacking is a possible alternative, but given California's high real estate values, investigating other areas may be a good decision.Houston, TX is frequently seen as a favourable alternative for out-of-state real estate investing for various reasons: Diverse Economy, Population Growth, Affordability, Landlord-Friendly Laws, Job Opportunities etcRemember that success in out-of-state investing often involves ongoing communication, local support, and adapting to the unique aspects of the chosen market.Good luck!

Additionally, Columbus is another market worth exploring for its strong rental demand, diverse economy, and growing population.

That's just my experience.Now, I invest nationally, in growth markets.I invest in economies of scale: Apartment buildings, instead of small multifamily or single family homes.I also help others do the same, by bringing co-investors in for these big deals.Anyone else out there who's also a residential Realtor, but invests in multifamily real estate?