Presently living in NYC -- looking to purchase my first RE property in Fairfield county, CT in 2025.

This is the place to be if you're looking to learn and get into RE.

Is this intended to be a RE investment or do you have alternate plans such as using it at some point for family?   

Currently I'm having a hard time filling my rooms, and it's making me re-think should I allow cosigners if I screen them more? 

What are the most promising alternative lending strategies for financing RE developments given the rising interest rates and tightening credit conditions?

.- Market Knowledge: Local real estate companies like RE/MAX Select, with their 18 full-time agents, indicate a strong local real estate community that could provide valuable market insights.In conclusion, Shelby's real estate market shows potential for investment, particularly given its price growth and strategic location.

Let experienced RE investors deal with this risk

Ha!

I pay E&O insurance and RE renewal fees, etc. 

Not sure if you're in the Bay Area or SoCal but there are lots of RE meet ups and you can talk to investors who invest OOS and may give you other ideas to mitigate the risk.