If I supplement that cash with some money from a HELOC, my buying power will be significantly better. 

Being 1.5hrs of NYC gives you a lot of options, even Long Island (which typically has more options for public commute into NYC).Give me a shout if you'd like to chat more, I have a handful of case studies on my site as well from deals I've closed/brokered that match the househacking criteria you're aiming for. 

The other project aims to generate income through entry fees to cenotes and nature trails.

Aim for some cash flow, or a market where appreciation is likely (pop & job growth, etc.).

Starting March 2025, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will enforce new lease standards for multifamily properties seeking financing, aiming to bolster tenant protections.

I aim to apply for FHA loan with a down payment of around 5%My Information:Age: 29MSalary: Around $85k (Anticipated increase to around $100k in December 2024)Debt: No DebtVehicle: Not currently owned (plan to purchase after home closing)Savings: $50,000I currently live in Northern Virginia and am ready to buy a townhouse there as a first-time homebuyer.

Lastly, education rates are up somewhat since 2010 while poverty rates are down.SNAPs (supplemental nutrition assistance program) rate is up a bit however. 

Aim for terms that align with your investment goals.

We can train it however you'd like; the aim is to modernise AirBnB's to get better reviews (and also stop guests from messaging you directly with silly questions).

While slightly more “boring”, with the amount of money you have to work with you could probably finance 4-6 $200,000 rentals and generate monthly income that could go a long way towards replacing / supplementing  a descent portion of your W2 income.