Depends on what you want/like.

It mostly depends on what opportunities are put in front of you though.

Maybe it can help you in your specific situation, it depends.

I don't know about doing a refi, I think it depends on your situation and rates.

I like the idea of no pets and that is decent income (depending on what the rents are).

Depending on the application, first, last, security, and another month or two.

Note this can be pro or a con depending on your strategy.

You'll find that interest rates will vary from bank to bank. 

Depends on your goals!

And you'll have the best rate/points options with a primary residence.Option #2 is great, especially if you're willing to move into one of the units (because the down payment minimum is just 5% or 3.5% depending on program), but as you mentioned it's really tough here to find small multifamily here.