The biggest reason I would advocate for mixed use is for the reasons you mentioned, the leases are longer, but also the general "issues" around tenants on the residential side don't come into play as much or at all. 

While I am down here in South Florida, where real estate is a sport and finding a parking spot feels like an investment strategy, house hacking can work anywhere if you play it right.Since you are new to the area, I would start by getting a feel for rental demand.

While you certainly need the cash flow to cover expenses solidly, sacrificing a little to buy in an area with higher values may end up being a better long term play... likely to have less turnover, higher tenant demand, better appreciation from owner occupants driving prices up, etc.All the best!

There are several myths that we have to debunk before someone truly believes they can do it.You need millions of dollars to do a dealThat it’s too complicated to figure outThat permitting takes yearsIn those communities developments cost way less (think a couple hundred thousand along with a loan from a regional bank), permitting is not difficult (much less red tape), and the towns are small enough that both the city staff and the local architects and engineers and contractors all work with you to help you navigate the process since you’re all invested in making your community better.Note: The big boys can play in the primary & secondary markets.

Cash flow is important, but appreciation, principal paydown, and tax advantages are also key factors in long-term real estate success.Your logic makes sense—if your investment property’s rent offsets your primary mortgage and you’re in a strong appreciation market, it could still be a great long-term play.

In firing people on probation, it tends to play out much different under normal circumstances. 

Ended up moving and renting as a LTR> cash-flow play. 

When I hint that I might walk away, I can sense a bit of anxiety from the seller, which tells me he’s not as confident as he’s trying to appear.I might play it cool and let him sit with the uncertainty for a bit.

Knowing the laws ahead of time and the process is very important but just know that lateness's are part of the game we play.

But that’s how I would expect it to play out.