Calculating the Cost of a Rehab:Biggerpockets has some great calculators for this under the tools section but obviously you'll need a number to put in for rehabs.

Use simple online tools like BiggerPockets to pick apart property details.

Jamiek,VA is a great tool for home ownership and for making the move into REI since it offers 100% financing.

As one of the owners, alongside Peter Vekselman, our goal is to support and guide you through your real estate investing journey.About Partner Driven100% Financing: We cover the costs of acquiring and rehabbing properties, removing a significant barrier for many investors.Coaching and Support: We offer ongoing coaching, deal review, and team support to help you succeed.Profit Sharing: We operate on a 50/50 profit split, ensuring that both parties benefit from successful deals.Comprehensive Tools: Access to software for finding and tracking off-market and pre-auction properties.Real-World ExamplesTo get a better sense of our work and see some of the successful deals we’ve done with our partners, please visit my BiggerPockets profile.

Another tool I find helpful is the Stipend Calculator https://www.furnishedfinder.com/Travel-Nurse-Stipend-calcula...It's similar to the stats page but it breaks down key amenities at the property.

Biggerpockets sells a Lease Agreement Package under "TOOLS" at the top of your screen. $100 for a lease and several other documents, written by investors and attorney approved for your state.

The best way to compare these 2 vastly different markets is by using the BiggerPockets calculators under the tools tab. 

I recommend exactly what you thought about in your post: househacking.Easiest way to get started, lowest barrier to entry because of low down payment needed, and a great way to get a feel for investing while having it in your backyard.Use the BP tool to find an investor friendly agent.

BiggerPockets has been something that many investors have shared with me as a useful tool for building a team.

I want to use bigger pockets as a tool to get me started off in the right direction.