Thanks I appreciate the responses!

After speaking with other investors, realtors, and contractors here is what I came up with.I do not take responsibility for it, it's relevant for Pittsburgh PA only, and use it on your own risk and discretion.

**Disclaimer**: Being young, I don't have a lot of responsibility so I am fine with being more hands on now to be able to have more time to spend with family later on.My what: I'm looking to buy small multi-family property to house hack and gain equity quickly over the next few years.

Thanks for your responses.

In my experience pet owners tend to be more responsible. 

Whenever he moved out, he made an arrangement with the most responsible tenant on site to become the PM of the house.

the loan officer was really helpful and responsive, it was just a lot of paperwork to work through.i like @Jay Hinrichs idea of just paying cash and refinancing. 

The individuals I've met along the way that are really good at real estate are analytical, level headed, and disciplined.

@Sufyan Minhasgoing to depend on the rules in individual buildings

You want an accountant who can help you strategize and who is responsive when you want to know the consequences of the financial decisions you are making throughout the year.Good luck.