However, if I had started off with a house hack, I could have lower my monthly mortgage tremendously which would have helped me build up my savings at a much quicker pace than I had.

Typically real estate is long term, has tax write off advantages and you can borrow money tax free to invest in other opportunities.

If you’re looking for multifamily deals in NC, try connecting with local commercial brokers who specialize in multifamily properties—they often have access to off-market deals.

Within the last 2 months, I've been approached by numerous investors asking if I do rent by room which I currently do not.

We view everytime a borrower pays off on time as a win.

First off, congrats on doing your homework before jumping in!

There are asset protection companies who make lots of money off this - I talked to one who said it's $13,000 (for 4 properties) to set up layers of protection then annual fees after this. 

If you don’t agree to that to kick you off the platform.Really not appreciating being forced to accept instant book

Andre,First off congrats on making the move out of CA and into a more accomodatinng state like CO in terms of Taxes, Home prices, and future to build a sucessful REI portfolio. 

This could involve offering a higher interest rate in exchange for reduced upfront costs or deferring payments until a certain milestone.If building right away isn’t feasible, consider buying the lot now with the goal of paying it off over time, and save up to build when rates and budgets align.