This may make it harder for you to qualify, but removes the possibility of you committing mortgage fraud by lying about the occupancy.I would strongly recommend AGAINST keeping a unit vacant for you to use on occasion.  

Chris,I had to literally ask the agent for information on the property on more that one occasion.  

We've rented to convicted felons on more than one occasion.

I've heard on more than one occasion "I need to get incorporated for asset protection" from people who have absolutely no assets.

When I am through the process the property will end up being a vacation rental that happens to be a family vacation home on occasion.  

I've heard him talk on many occasions at our local REIA, and seen actual case studies of the deals that he completes (not just teaches.)While BiggerPockets provides excellent information that you can implement and be successful, some people just need that added support system of a coach. 

On occasion when leveraging we've run in to issues w/ lenders either not understanding or not wanting to close the deal in the Trusts names.  

Obviously both sides of the street are equally proximate to jobs, restaurants, cultural attractions, etc.The houses on the West Hartford side of the street, on the rare occasions they come on the market, are worth 2 to 2 1/2 times as much as the houses on the Hartford side.  

In a couple of occasions, I have had tenants asking me if they can change the colors because they have some of their own they would like to use. 

I suspect in several others, you would have difficulty making it stick in court if the occasion arose.