In my journey as a real estate investor, I quickly learned the importance of evaluating properties and utilizing underwriting templates.

You'd need about 250-300k for a down payment for a starter duplex which may work better for you since you can utilize one side as a long term rental and the second side as an STR which you can use as you please but remember if you do a 1031 exchange you'd be limited on how much you can actually use that property to still be considered an investment and not a second home.

It shows the space is utilized and adds value to the living experience.

I have selected a local CPA firm and will be utilizing them for tax preparation.

But we do want the option to use it as a short term rental in the future.Do I need to go the ADU route - separate address, utilities, etc?

.), utilities, TV/internet, landscaping maintenance, marketing, credit card fees, lodging taxes, etc.

One of the top priorities is having an investor friendly Realtor and utilizing their network to help build a team that has great communication with each other.

QUESTION 1: Would you consider this a good investment; purchasing a renovated SFH, section 8 it, and utilize a management company?

My concerns are debts that weren’t paid or charged off if it was recent and especially if it was property related (utilities, rent, etc).  7 times the rent just means that make a ton of money and spend a ton of money.  

Speaking broadly, I think the best investment strategy involves finding properties that aren't fully utilizing their income potential.At a more sophisticated level, that might mean buying a fourplex of large two-bedrooms, making relocation agreements with the tenants, remodeling the units into three-bedrooms, and then renting them out at market rents.