I've successfully completed a few house hacks in California, and am looking into branching out to the Midwest with small to mid multi-family to scale a bit faster.

Sometimes, just knowing the rigth people...whether that’s sharp-minded agents who see a gem before it’s polished or a reliable contractor who’s not going to vanish mid-renovation...can make all the difference.If I had to do it all over again with $80K in my pocket, I’d jump on that first multifamily, rent it out, and let the tenants’ checks pay off the mortgage month after month.

From mid july I started noticing I have not received any deposits and I thought it might be a delay since it is a new property.

We own a mid term rental in Temple that has performed very well.

We do have 1 mid term rental where we allow pets, but it's all hard surface flooring, fenced in backyard, and has pretty durable furniture. 

I have a brand new renovated unit that hit the market mid-November and it has been brutal trying to rent it.

Depends on really what you are looking for:-Speed - some HMLS can go "no appraisal" so can close very quickly and beat cash offers if you are in a competitive market to buy-Interest Rates - can range anywhere from around 8% to 13% (same with "points") but not usually as huge of a concern for flippers since the terms are so short-Leverage - depending on your risk appetite / capital - this is also a top concern for some (almost always over and above rates/fees) can see anywhere from around 80% LTC to even mid 90s LTC (including 100% of rehab budget)

Quote from @Heidi Fischer: HelloI’m a high W2 earner and have been looking for a STR and finally went into contract but can’t close until mid-end of December 2024.

I'm currently house hacking with a mid term rental strategy and considering renting out two rooms in my property to a single tenant.

Have you thought about targeting mid-term rentals, particularly given the med school proximity, or STR given the hotels nearby?