By your description of the situation, I thought that might be in. 

I would like to start investing in real estate once I get situated down there.

Sorry you’re dealing with this—sounds like an incredibly frustrating situation.

Umbrella insurance is usually a very large policy of $1 million or more, extending your coverage for larger situations.

I might suggest getting your own appraisal where you select the appraiser that knows your situation and you can talk to and discuss their approach.

Still, you may not have to submit your tax returns. more info would be needed to know for sure, reach out to a seasoned loan officer for pre-approval and see if your situation would allow for this. 

Take people's advice and also dont take people's advice, make a decision that best fits your situation. 

I totally agree with the idea that local markets offer better value in the long run that cheaper out-of-state markets.Finally, Just because an experienced property manager would not do a house hack or purchase a small multifamily property does not mean it would not be a good fit for you and your situation.

I tend to lean toward my clients getting some experience owning a standalone rental property prior to buying a live-in multiunit, but at the end of the day, every situation is different. 

The main thing being: giving up a property that appears to have appreciated pretty well is just a touch pill to swallow and I've regretted a few moves I've made when put in a similar situation to yours, and I had less equity in mine.It sounds like you're moving to Raleigh in the near future and want to buy a multifamily to househack.