I lived in Houston for a dozen years (moved last summer) and really wanted to make an STR work, but I just couldn't get there.

The FHA rules/regs (in particular the FHA self-sufficiency test) are applied the same across all markets, and I know for a fact that in rural communities across the country, and big cities that are not particularly desirable places to live, it's not a deal-breaker, I am not commenting on those areas. 

Now you see how expensive dining and living rooms are that could be converted. 

I like the detailed descriptions others have given, but I also keep it simple:A: I’d live there with my familyB: I’d live there if I had to with my family C: I’d live there if I was single D: Nope

I could see a requirement, perhaps under the Patriot Act, that requires all landlords to get a SSN/TIN from everyone living in a unit and report that (or lack of) to the federal government.

My name is Cesar and I am originally from Puerto Rico but have been living in Virginia for over 20 years.

I agree with the others here that say you need to have some skin in the game, if you are going to live there yourself, get an FHA loan rather than owner financing, you can get a 3.5% down loan, personally I do not love these as they require  PMI which is an additional expense, and you also need  bring additional funds for closing at least for taxes, title, attorney and transfer fees . borrowing from anyone else for the down payment, to include a personal loan from the bank is not a good idea, those again will be higher int. rate.

Return:Finishing the basement and adding bedrooms can add significant value, especially if your local market places a premium on additional living space.

Quote from @Brendan Doherty': I’ve read in books of people getting past having to live in the property they own so they can rent all units year one of ownership(living on the property with an rv).

Cost of living increases are real.