Above 5+ units is possible but more challenging and rates are where you would expect them..50-65%LTV will be common for higher plex units, a common workarounds is if they have a US based family member or business partner with an LLC..Some investors or lenders have specific countries of origin that are restricted or even prohibited, check with your mortgage professional. 

You can never know 100% but if you see businesses, company offices, increasing traffic, proximity to a desirable neighborhood or area (beach, downtown, etc), odds are it will help.

How do you maximize the odds of always having a reliable tenant in your property?

Hey @Carlos Martinez - I'm a broker & investor in NYC. 1 - Technically getting insurance is on you, BUT it doesn't mean the agent shouldn't be helping you by giving some recommendations lol... it's an odd thing to tell your client that it's not your job anymore. 2 - In terms of paying out of pocket the commission difference, it depends on what agreement you had with your agent.

Unfortunately, I did not verify the information provided by my agent regarding HOA restrictions and home insurance costs.

I decided that I wanted to take advantage of this benefit by buying a property to eventually rent out (after meeting the 1 year primary residence restrictions).

Have to play to the odds

Odd.

Make sure you thoroughly read the CC&R's because many also have restrictions on rental (% of owners that can rent, length of term, approval prior to,no short term, etc.).

Your target, from what you wrote, would be cheaper renters looking for a value stay that is clean, but unspectacular.If you market is saturated, you will keep going lower and lower in the algorithm which will indirectly restrict booking.