Here's how I do my due diligence:1) Portfolio matching: (takes 30 seconds per deal)a) Have an educated opinion on where I think we are in the real estate cycles (financial and physical market cycles)b) Then and only then do I pick the strategies, capital stack, and specialized asset subclasses that make sense for that opinion.

Appreciation: Are you primarily looking for immediate cash flow (rental income exceeding expenses) or are you betting on long-term appreciation?

If it crashes hard enough, it impacts your personal finances, your relationships, and even your mental/physical health.With the exceptions of politicians and so-called charities, building wealth typically requires sacrifice and time.

Quote from @Dan Keefe: Hello everyone,I’m a traveling physical therapist but grew up in Maine and am looking to purchase multi families in Biddeford using an FHA and subsequently to house hack in.My question to the Southern Maine community is in regards to the rent data in Biddeford and Saco.

Personally, I love them because they offer built-in diversification.In my experience, local banks are your best bet for financing mixed-use properties.

If you can find a precedent, that could bolster your argument significantly.Lean on the Physical Details: Four mailboxes, four sewer lines-those are big indicators that the property has been treated as a four-unit for some time.

Good luck, you are a busy man with school, family and baseball.Likely your best bet is house hacking (if your partner and child are willing to share housing). 

You bet it is lower risk than being on the equity side.

You must keep the tenants security deposit at a bank that physically operates a branch office in the State of NC.  

Influence or control can lead to a beneficial owner even if you own little equity.Also it is 20 FT EEs AND $5M Revenue AND a physical office.