My understanding at the time was that I may not qualify any other way.

Why not use bank debt or alternative lender debt if you don't qualify yet for bank originated debt?

Montgomery Metropolitan Housing has a reputation of being difficult to work with and are slow to pay at times r so I have heard.One thing to keep in mind is that even with section 8, you still get to set your criteria that tenants need to qualify for your unit. 

It’s a lower risk strategy since you’ll be living in one of the units, and you’ll qualify for low down payment loans.

If you are looking to buy in PA, its possible you can qualify for PHA KFIT program that gives you a 5% closing cost forgivable loan.

Excess depreciation could be suspended as a passive loss unless you qualify as a Real Estate Professional (REPS) or materially participate in a Short-Term Rental (STR)—which would allow you to use the additional depreciation to offset W-2 or business income.

You'll qualify for the lowest mortgage rate and can put 5% or less down.

Sometimes it can take longer to place a *qualified* tenant into these properties as well so your vacancy can be a bit higher. 

In our area we have 3 different HUD agencies that provide vouchers to qualifying tenants.  

Most mortgages aren't "assumable" (able to be transferred) and even if it is the new borrower would need to qualify the same as the original borrower.