If the rate is reasonable then it may make sense to try to save fast to get to the 3.5% down payment on a double or triple - househacking may allow you to increase your savings rate and pay down that loan even faster.As for estimating costs, closing in NY factor at least 1% of the mortgage amount for tax, plus $1500-2000 for lawyer, title and fees, then the amount required by the bank for escrow will depend on the actual property taxes and insurance.

A fresh coat of paint in a modern neutral color and updated lighting can really elevate those spaces.Adding a deck or patio can be a great way to increase usable living space and boost value.

Also considering live and flip, or make our first home we buy an opportunity to increase our income as well (renting basement or part of the unit).

Live in one unit and rent out the others to cover your mortgage.Seller Financing: Negotiate terms with the property seller where they act as the lender, often requiring a smaller down payment and bypassing traditional underwriting.Partnerships or Joint Ventures: Partner with an investor who provides the capital in exchange for a share of the property’s equity or income.Lease Options: Use a rent-to-own agreement, which allows you to control the property while saving for a formal purchase.BRRRR Method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat): Acquire a distressed property with short-term financing, rehab it to increase value, rent it out, and refinance to recoup your initial investment.Pro TipStay in close communication with your lender as you approach your next purchase.

You can show a packet to the mayor of the city, and they'll focus on a 3d picture of the development rather than 10 bullet points on how it will increase affordable housing supply. 

It’s easy to find tenants, population/jobs are increasing, and property taxes/insurance aren’t skyrocketing. 

When we tell them our opening bid is $1.5M they try and negotiate off the $500k because that was the original loan balance but due to other circumstances like modifications etc. the loan balance has increased significantly. 

@Ben Cochran I hope you have factored STR tax savings into your cashflow and ROI as it can be significant.Leveraging equity to purchase a short-term rental (STR) in Tampa Bay can diversify your portfolio and potentially generate strong cash flow, but it also increases your financial risk.While your properties hold significant equity, adding debt from HELOCs or a DSCR loan could strain your finances if STR performance fluctuates or costs rise.

Also, if you have cash to complete the purchase, you can get preapproved and then make an offer with proof of funds and without a financing contingency with a standard 30 days to close.

I have been using Quickbooks online for years and love that it's the industry standard and robust software.