This has been my strategy here in NOVA as well - though true multifamily housing stock is hard to come by as you are probably already aware.

I've uploaded the template (well, it says it is for 15 minutes), but nothing ever happens.  

Although that would be looked down upon by a lender as well because of the inherent risk of lending to someone who has too much on their plate. 

If you had also spend money on renovations and improvements while occupying those should have gone into service then as well. 

If you find something that works well as a short-term rental, but doesn't work well for you as a home, you'll have money but be dissatisfied when you live there.You don't even need it to produce a profit.

Machias Savings Bank as well.

You need income to qualify for loans, you can learn how to manage rentals well (something most landlords never do), you will figure out which communities/properties make the best investments, can earn an above-average paycheck, and may even find some investment properties before they hit the market.

You'll do well if you're this disciplined at 18!

Sounds like you all area experiencing it as well. 

I've done this with my properties because I'm well known in my small town and don't want people to know what I own.