Focus on long-term rentals in affordable markets with reliable cash flow, and steer clear of high-cost flips, lower-class properties, or overleveraging in areas that rely solely on appreciation.Good luck!

My girlfriend and I are looking to get into Multifamily real estate investing and have also looked into the possibility of house hacking, although a good affordable property seems to be tough but not impossible in this area.

The short version is that you want a strong and diverse job market, low unemployment rates, a growing population, low vacancy rates and new development, affordability/cost of living, real estate laws and court system, good schools, and low crime.Check out the videos from Dave Meyers with BiggerPockets.

I use the property myself, but if I couldn't afford to keep the place vacant all year long I'd have been in trouble. 

Myrtle Beach area and clearwater florida are more affordable for what we are looking for. 

I wanted to start with a cheaper property I could reasonably afford and also learn from.

If you ever are interested in a more affordable market I'd love to connect on what the Midwest has to offer!

It looks like you are doing an affordable build based on the cost but hard to say since you didnt provide info on the build itself such as square footage and finishes.

She's on a fixed monthly income and cannot afford home repairs.

If they cannot afford the security deposit, it's best to just find someone who can.