I need to ensure that the rent-to price ratio will sufficiently cash flow as I intend to hold at least 5-years before acquiring any other real estate.  

- Lots of Equipment (R&D Facilities, Car Washes)- Gas Stations (100% 15 year properties)- Movable walls (self storage)You can find anywhere from 15-35% of the purchase price of a typical apartment complex is this type of property.More of it means less tax for you from higher depreciation amounts!

Find a STR that cash flows (yes there are plenty as long as you are not looking in Orlando), purchase and self manage for the first year, find a CPA that specializes in the cost seg, and then you can find a PM or continue self managing.  

Your future self will thank you when the HVAC doesn’t quit in the middle of summer!

I would appreciate having people share what they know of self-closing in Mississippi, either through their own experience or that of acquaintances. 

I think if you can write a solid letter of explanation stating that you are going to commute to Colorado from Washington for 4-5 months out of the year for your job (and why), that should be sufficient enough to run this as a primary residence. 

But, something to add that you have to understand is that a 3-4 unit has to be meet the FHA self sufficiency test.

Self-management is a good thing, as long as you have the skill set and knowledge to do it properly.

For working people you often come across self employed 1099 contractors.

Instead he/she claims that his/her invoice is sufficient.