Do you also use Redfin/Zillow as a starting point? 

Much easier to when you start with people who understand the question.One way a friend does this (not USA based) is to set up joint ventures.

I'm originally from the area and have been starting to look at some properties there as I am living in New Jersey.

I strongly recommend a multifamily to start out when using a DSCR loan.

So, if you start with a duplex, your next purchase could be a triplex or fourplex.

That said, even with conservative rental income estimates, my living expenses would eventually drop to several hundred dollars less than what I’m currently paying in rent once the house hack starts generating income.I do have cash reserves to weather some rough patches, but the idea of pushing my budget this hard makes me uneasy.

If timing permits you can get a tenant into your home that you'd be leaving.If you are going to move into the new home you have a lot of options for better rates and lower down payments.Matt HowardNorthpointe Bank616.552.5730https://www.northpointe.com/home-lending/get-started/matt-ho...https://www.zillow.com/lender-profile/matt%20howard/

Let me know if I can be of any help as you start this journey.

Quote from @Jade Frank: Hi, I'm Jade and I'm looking to get started with real estate investing.

More of a general trend, when we started we asked the same question. how low can I get it?