She charges a flat 10% rate. 

You can generally get the best terms (max leverage and best rates) on an owner-occupied house.

Do a bit of digging, and you can find single-families in suburbs like Decatur or Meridianville that appreciate at rates above the statewide and nationwide average and hit the 1% rule at the same time.One caveat, though, is that most rentals in Huntsville proper probably aren’t going to deliver the cash flow you’re looking for.

Looking at a property that would be a somewhat turnkey STR, it has great numbers and occupancy rates.

We have an A+ Rating with no complaints. 

Finally from a purely from a cash outlay prospective short term, you could rent a house with roommates and your payment would still probably be Lower than house hacking because rates are so high, over the long period 5-10 years obviously it would cheaper ti buy, hope that makes sense 

With high home prices, rising mortgage rates, and intense market competition, securing a property has become increasingly difficult.A recent survey found that over 60% of real estate agents reported instances where Gen Z buyers lost out on homes due to delayed decision-making, missed appointments, or hesitation in making offers.

Since you haven't started the project yet, use this time to network with lenders to see who offers the best terms....seasoning, rate, leverage and pre-payment penalty terms. 

Our occupancy rates have been 65-95% during the peak.

Just a heads up this will not be tax free, it will be a pro-rated exclusion.