I see 3-5 as a fad.Fractional ownership - way to much overhead for these to be profitable. think "timeshare".STR in non traditional markets - running a STR is a business and real estate, boils down to location location location - who would want to go to a conference and stay in a STR vs. the hotel where the conference is at, most businesses pay for this I do not see why.Mixed use with green - this has been going on for years- it will continue but it is also more expensive to build - which means higher costs to use.Not trying to be debbie downer, I have seen these attempted to be done in the past and they really have not been successful.I do really like the BTR model though as I continue to see that as a very good option in the future. 

I would continue with the STR in NJ.

Goal here is to use the VA's 0% down on a multiplex and rent out the unit I'm living in after 12m.
The mental gymnastics I'm going through is how exactly that would work without committing fraud.
Can I refinance m...

My goal is to continue to acquire more cash flowing rentals to eventually leave my day job and just self manage the rental properties. 

Unless you want to continue having negative cashflow, you pretty much have to raise rents.

It has been a great rental and would continue to be one but I think I am ready to sell it!

Market is continuously stable and rents well.

If you are looking to house hack in our local neck of the woods, I recommend reaching out to @Josh Green.

If you are house hacking ask about house hacking, OOS ask about OOS, etc. etc.

Lots of investment in the region as well so hopefully quality job growth will continue.