Or even I can sub contract work out to other companies and bill it via my own company name.

It would therefore for all intensive purposes be a 4 unit. 

Three properties for $170K sounds like a bargain, especially if you can force appreciation after a turnover.If the property is breaking even with the initial purchase, I would pull the trigger on this deal with plans to BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) the properties as each one turns over to recycle my cash if the numbers work out.

So, if your current business is during normal business hours that could work out schedule wise. 2.

I thought it would be a little more intense. 

Did it work out well for you?

Most of the time a condo/townhome won't be the right fit due to condo fees, hoa fees, etc that make it more costly for the ownership but also more management intensive.

It doesn't always work out perfectly but it's been a great strategy for us to build our rental portfolio.I'm sure there are lenders who might chime in with other recommendations.

So how did it all work out? 

I had to have the visceral experience of committing to a 30 year obligation was 5 times my annual salary and then watch it work out relatively risk free (because I have to live somewhere) to feel comfortable making multiple six-figure commitments.