Not sure what the property is currently worth.

I've found over and over that it's worth it.

Or can you acquire another business in an adjacent field that increases profitability?

This decision increased our budget from $15K to $45K, but it turned out to be a wise investment.The increased budget allowed us to enhance the property's overall value significantly, and we were able to sell it for a much higher price than initially anticipated.

This decision increased our budget from $15K to $45K, but it turned out to be a wise investment.The increased budget allowed us to enhance the property's overall value significantly, and we were able to sell it for a much higher price than initially anticipated.

It's not only the money you'll lose, it's the time you spend (I figure worth $100 hr) and the mental anguish and stress.

To answer your title directly, house hacking is entirely worth it and if you're willing to be a landlord it's 100% the best springboard to financial independence.

However, a good real estate accountant is worth what you pay them because they will save you time and money. 

And how does the 10% Shop Card work—was it worth it overall?

This puts the current market rents of $885–$925 per unit well within the affordable range, with room for modest increases post-renovation.I’ve also reviewed competing properties in the area; apartments seem to be listed between 975 -1000, and houses are listed between 1300-1900.