This influx of high-paying jobs (averaging $60 per hour) is expected to draw a significant number of professionals to the area, boosting demand for housing and various services.

Do you have Real Estate Professional status?

You can be assertive and still be nice/professional. 

Readers should seek professional advice.

Meaning where growth opportunity is happening, appreciation, networking with professionals in that market such as lenders, other investors etc.

Readers should seek professional advice.

@Scott VaethIf you live in part of the home and rent out rooms, you might be able to keep the lower 4% owner-occupied rate.Instead of a long-term rental that barely covers half the mortgage, could you do a rent-by-the-room model or target traveling professionals to increase cash flow?

Recommend that you speak to someone that actually does STR or is a professional. 

Investing in a property that’s already renovated, rented, and professionally managed could allow you to start generating passive income immediately without the added expenses of house hacking.What’s most important for you in this first deal—cash flow, appreciation, or long-term stability?

Right now, I'm working with a team that helps find off market properties for investors which has been a great way to dive in and connect with experience professionals in the industry.