HUDuser.org is great for vacancy rates, but cross-referencing with local market reports is important for more context.For job diversity and employers, LinkedIn or regional economic development websites often provide insights.

Local PM here - we have multiple development projects we are gearing up to sell, both small multifamily and townhouses should you want to take a peak at them.

The PM will also fix things when needed, using local handymen or contractors, and collect the rent for you.

Start by networking through local meetups, REIA groups, and online communities like BiggerPockets to connect with experienced investors.

Happy to connect and provide you with a list of the local meet ups. my cell and email are below! 

I am starting my first househacking deal this year and I will Segway that into my second deal by end of 2025.I would love to hear all you experts and pros with experience to tell your story.

It is hard to really keep up with those kinds of trends unless I budget 10k a year in updating the property which I am not going to do.I participate in our local council/mayor meetings.

There are people located all over who could help you locally. 

Post on local Facebook pages for contractor referrals, go to local REIAs, and ask your potential agents and PMs (even if not using a PM at first...you may at some point).There is only so much that service providers can do and many of them are far from "experts"; so, be prepared to be your own expert at being willing to figure stuff out as you move forward.

I am no expert by any means but I thought I would drop my opinion here. 1) Should I focus on duplex since they're most likely less expensive in my area in category A or B properties, or aim for more units?