Both strategies have potential here, so it depends on your goals:Strategy 1 (Duplex) can be a solid choice for building equity and generating cash flow, especially in Austin’s competitive short-term rental market.

Quote from @Antoine Black: I have a house that free and clear and I'm trying to tap in the equity can any one help  Hey Antoine, As Mike stated, your best bet is a local credit union.

Your better bet may be to bring on an equity partner, just realize that you will probably be giving up 30-50% of the business if you go that route, but in the long run its probably end up doing much better.

They were given a choice; either sign up for fork in the road in a few days which is a resignation, or risk getting fired.

If I were a betting man the company is folding up and this dutch character is out there doing the guru circuit as only source of $ and idiots will pay for training from someone like this.  

Asking them implies they have a choice.

Now you have 3 choices.

I really want to start my investment journey but I'm not sure if an out of state property would be a good choice while renting in NYC or if we don't move, to move to a cheap market, live in the property for a bit and then rent it out.

Your best bet would be to connect with local operators and ask them.

That's probably your best bet.