New construction can be a very attractive option in certain markets.

As a rule, I could argue to have the IRA (Roth preferred) NOT hold property, but control is with options, leases, etc, so the profits come into the IRA.

When house hacking, consider the area's average rents, property values, and financing options, such as FHA loans or conventional loans, which may require as little as 3.5% down for multifamily properties (if it's owner-occupied).

Any insight into the kind of options we may have for something like this and how qualification for a small hotel differs from residential conventional loans would be extremely helpful.

If you don't have free cash available that limits lots of options, but if you do, that is another story. 

This means that if the bank forecloses, and you can’t pay it off, you will lose all of your money with no recourse to anyone.One option to secure your loan is if one of the partners has a free and clear property worth significantly more than your loan.

If house hacking isn't the best option for me, how would you recommend starting out to build up some investments.

Taking a deposit to secure the deal can be a good option, as it shows the buyer is serious and committed while also giving you the time needed for the 90-day rule to clear.

I've done some digging on Batchleads, it seems to be the best option for skip tracing.A realtor friend warned me about the consistent "No's" I'll eat before i get my first deal.

I have saved up some money but my goal is to save up at least 20k in a year before I start looking for options on house hacking in a duplex.