My partner is considering the same on his home, however, he still owes about 100k with 300k equity.Is this a wise strategy?

Your “don’t evict strategy” could only make sense in a market that literally hates landlords.

I realizing the duplex conversion strategy is more complex I probably wouldn't try it on my first property, just want to get a sense of what's possible in the Chattanooga market :) Thanks!

However, some investors don't mind this strategy if they prefer not to put a lot of liquid in up front and plan to refi out within a few years of closing (which seems to be a great option with the talks of the FED reducing interest rates this year).It really comes down to investing in a growing market, in a good neighborhood & building a great team to support you.

I am just curious if you are utilizing cost segregation strategies for your investments? 

What is your strategy?

Over this time I have acquired my contractor team and have vetted them through my job as a property manager, figured out my strategy(Off Market/Deep buying) and location.

OP I think you’re in a great geographic spot and potential REI strategy potential.1.  

You'll learn a lot here.I recommend focusing on 1 strategy/business model and going all in on that one until you've mastered it and it's stable.

I believe in putting in the work—1,000 hours of research, testing, and learning—before offering advice, and I’m excited to tap into the collective wisdom of this community to refine my approach.Here’s where my head is at: I’m considering strategies like short-term rentals (Airbnb) for higher cash flow, long-term rentals for steady income, or even creative options like house hacking or partnerships to stretch the funds further.