Seems perfectly doable and after looking around in south FL I have gathered most people are already into it.The simplest house hacking method is to buy a property with 2-4 units, live in one and rent the others.Up to 4 units is still considered a non-commercial property.This let's you put down 20% on conventional loans and 3.5% on FHA loans.That's the golden ticket for house hacking.Buy a 4 unit using 3.5% down, live in one (cheapest one), rent the other 3.

They do not have a large nest egg in my opinion to set them up like they need in their golden years so trying to help how I can.  

The Golden Rule still applies...

I didn't realize that Freddie mac type loans can be issued for multifamily properties where there are repairs needed and can be included with the purchase.If I can get some sort of forbearance for the first few months during the renovation ill be golden!

Is anyone buying real-estate in globe Az?

If the situation improves, you will be golden. 

We were looking at 4plexs in golden hills, normal heights, Linda vista, city heights etc. and the prices were crazy for properties that needed lots of work.

I'm a soon to be college graduate (this December) and have accepted a full time position in Golden Valley, MN. 

A real estate lawyer/investor friend of mine told me that the best first level of protection is to follow the golden rule.

You have to have someone like that in your area when you find him you'll be golden.