A cost segregation study would be more beneficial this year. 

For a beginner investor, the choice between using maximum leverage or putting more cash upfront to build equity depends on several factors including risk tolerance, financial stability, and long-term investment goals. 

., as Bad habits in one area typically carry over to other areas, and will land you a poor Tenant (or co-signer) choice.

All of these are factors in narrowing down your choice for starting.

We have LVP in some kitchen/bath areas and it is holding up well, but if you have a choice tile.The only caveat I can think of is aesthetically having all one floor is more pleasing than many room transitions.

These relationship oriented lenders will prove to be beneficial as you grow.

Obviously a lot can change between now and next year as well.1031 would seem an obvious choice.

Connecting with a local agent who knows the Atlanta market well can help you navigate these choices and find the best fit for your investment goals.

But I feel you on the 24” model, if you have no choice :(

You can buy a single family home, live in it for a year, then rent it out afterwards, and that would effectively be an investment property after you moved out, but you also got the more beneficial terms of it being a primary residence loan.You could buy a single family home and rent out bedrooms while you are living there, and that would effectively be an investment property, but again, you have the more beneficial terms of a primary residence loan.I wouldn't get caught up so much on if a property you buy is an investment immediately so much as I would focus on what your goals are and how each purchase would be step towards your goals, whether that is house hacking or just buying investment properties you don't live in.