I studied RE development and investment for my MBA, I am the building inspector for the town where I live and I worked as a contractor before switching to only working on my own deals.

I have 2 properties now one I live in but Short Term Rent it when not home which is a lot.

There are some exceptions, but the HOA dues normally kill your returns and there are all kinds of other issues having tenants living close together. 

We are somewhat handy and would not mind fixing up the house while living in it. 3.

I live in Cullman.

The people within your subdivision may sell the house for you, as they may have family/friends who want to live close to them, and people are always intrigued by new construction in their neighborhood. 

After 4-5-6 years then maybe roll them up into a small mulitfamily.Another option if you have the credit and some capital is to buy a 4 unit as owner/occupied and live in one and rent the other 3. 

i do not however use it for heat mine is an AC only unit I believe not a heat pump unit.If you're whole unit is relying on one mini split for ac and heat that surprises me just given if you shut a bedroom door you'd not have heat from the split that I assume is in the living room. 

I lived there from 2017 to 2022 and personally witnessed significant changes during that time.

You will need to provide an explanation of the circumstances surrounding the BK every time you apply for credit, apply for a job, apply for a bank account, etc.Bottom line is if you’re working day labor type jobs for small companies and live on a cash basis it might not affect anything.