@Erica King Sounds like this is more of a personal budgeting concern rather than a real estate one.

What was your first goal?

I first started out in Real Estate by house hacking in college. 

So, what is happening today is not as important as what will happen in the foreseeable future.If rents are increasing faster than inflation (I use 5% per year as an average rate), then it may be worth holding the property, since your cash flow will increase as rents rise.However, in your post you stated, "Mortgage rates have kept increasing as well, that's why I put a range on negative cash flow."

What may seem like a benefit (NO MONEY DOWN) is actually a curse!!  

@NA NA, for me that is an easy answer.

Good on your friend for suggesting house hacking a duplex.

I checked out that house.

congrats on the first duplex. easiest will be house hack your next property. you can go higher in units up to 4 but just need to occupy the property. lets connect if you need guidance, i house hacked a few times

And the owner is very responsive to questions or issues (emailed him at night and received a reply within a few hours).