Your mentor’s advice about starting with a rental property is solid, and a duplex could be a great option for house hacking.

I left them recently like many others have in the last 5 months and even though our money was technically an investment and a limited partner contribution, they refused to give anyone their money back even after stating numerous times they would give people their money back if they choose to leave. 

It is zoned single family but since the previous owner is using it as a rooming house a few things look different that I am worried about the appraiser not passing:Outside doors for each room with locks.The only common area is the kitchen, no dining room, living room, etc.The rooms consist of 5 bedrooms, 1 kitchen, and 2 bathrooms.Each room has a bed and a small drawer which I am thinking of diassembling before the appraiser comes.Would I have a problem with this?

Is this place rundown and a fixer upper? 

We will have a happy hour in may and a masterclass event in March. 

I have 10 years of experience in retail real estate and a couple of partners who are interested in investing with me.

Congrats on finding a property and a willing seller!

And a big Welcome to BiggerPockets.  

The key is a great contractor and a clear, detailed, well-thought-out scope of work. 

I have also taken the relo rental option a few times as well, both as renter and as owner.