The SST doesn't apply for legal 2-flats so if you want to use FHA it's probably better to target those that maybe also have a non-conforming basement or attic unit.This is why the 5% down conventional loan is a game changer for house hackers.

Playing small won’t serve you or your family.

Well I have seen this come into play - I had someone who has a note in florida that was a non-owner occupied loan and the lender claims the borrower failed to make payments on this and attempted to record the deed in lieu.

Seems like you are looking for a passive income play. 

Which makes my answer, as opposed to yours, applicable.Especially since I qualified mine by adding "...unless she adds more real estate work"Your argument reminds my of an old joke:- Doctor, will I be able to play violin after this surgery?

You might not cash flow right away, but even just offsetting what you were paying in rent while building equity, getting tax benefits, and learning how to be a landlord is a game changer.

In the meantime, most of my capital is tied up and I am looking to be Super creative and I have absolutely the time and energy to cold call until i find someone that is game...even if i got to get a property in Alaska.

I'll definitely play it safe.

New construction in a saturated market isn’t always the best play if you’re looking for steady returns.A place like Rochester has way better fundamentals—lower buy-in, strong rent-to-price ratios, and stable demand from universities, hospitals, and major employers.

It’d be interesting to see how that plays out in the next few years.