Another option is using different creative financing strategies - it's all about how you'll structure your deals. 

Myers with a long term buy and hold strategy, are you considering getting out of this market? 

Understand the basics of private lendingResearch real estate marketsDetermine your investment strategy and criteria for loans, including:- Amounts- Interest rates- Repayment termsCreate legal documents with a lawyerNetwork with real estate professionalsPerform due diligence on potential borrowers and their projectsBegin with smaller loans to gain experienceMonitor your investments closelyConsider joining a private lending group for additional resourcesStay informed about real estate trends, lending practices, and legal regulations

Is it a stable long term strategy?

A popular strategy I've seen work is to scale with properties in the C locations and then slowly upgrade your portfolio into the nicer asset classes as you progress and become more cash flow heavy. 

You are much better of preparing for the worst case scenario and adjusting your strategy accordingly.  

@Adriana V Alvarado a "good deal" in the BA really depends more on your timeline and long term strategy.

I believe the better question to ask would be: Based on my skills, employment, time availability and resources which are ______, what is the best city and strategy for me?

Is the house hack strategy off the table? 

It just depends on which strategy makes better sense to you (similar to buy/sell vs.