Do they have an ITIN number or permanent residency status? 

From what I have researched, and from what the Modular architects/manufacturers/contractors have told me, there is no difference in valuation if it is permitted and receives its CO as a permanent structure. 

They are built at our location and delivered and become permanent property.

If I still buy a house next summer but don’t start school until 2026 and continue to travel for work, I believe most FHA loans require you to not rent out your permanent residence for the first year following your loan?

There are lenders that work with foreign nationals (people living outside the U.S. that are not U.S. citizens or have permanent resident status) to buy investment properties with DSCR loans.

@Nicholas Olson- thanks  1)  fyi - there are conventional loan programs that allow you to put 5% down on a 4 unit if you plan to live in it - consider this as you can avoid the  fha upfront mtg ins premium and also  avoid the permanent FHA monthly mtg ins   2) avoid  renting the unit you state you will be residing in as this sounds like a problem waiting to occur 

Maybe they were never truly permanent STRs.  2020-2022 was an anomaly due to the pandemic and massive government stimulus.

This will be especially true for newer invesetors who jumped in the market in the last three years, and with your #3...I think we have or are creating a new class of permanent/forced renters who will never be able to buy. 

But I had thoughts about buying in the pocono area to then eventually turn it into an STR, then buy a nicer more permanent Single family home that’s paid for by my rental properties.

Imagine we reach a time where interest rates are higher so it is harder to get qualified, your HELOC balloon is coming due and they will not renew.I'd put in place some permanent financing on you long-term holdings.