They get to save money on living expenses and we have a much higher yield then LTR's by far. 

What's my best strategy here to protect myself and to assist with this connection?

I'm happy to connect and assist you on your journey!

The best markets are where people want to live, like California.

I always check active rentals to see what the competition is currently looking like for if a rental were to go live that month too.

I'm 2 years late to this post but better late than never I guess lolWe would be happy to assist if still needed.Check out Oz Realty 🥇Thanks 👍

It sounds like you will not have lived in the property for 2 out of the 5 years immediately prior to selling it. 

Or they can be sold to investors.I think they are particularly attractive for new investors to buy as a house hack - you live in one and rent out 3, most, if not all, your expenses will be covered.Look at what it last sold for, has it appreciated?

Most do not follow it which is you can have someone assist in capital raise but it cannot be their only function - it must be less than 50%.

The most knowledgable people on market rents are the prospective renters who are currently shopping around trying to find the best option for themselves to live.