You will need a RMLO to modify any residential owner occupied mortgage. 

Do you want it vacant or occupied?

In many cases it is fully legal so long as it is your primary home and you occupy one of the units but definitely make sure you're in compliance before you move forward.

According to the brokerage and agent, these individuals either weren’t serious or claimed they didn’t realize the property was occupied, even though it was clearly stated in the listing.I’m not particularly concerned about the property’s condition or the eviction process, as I’ve already secured some level of cooperation and have basic access to the basement.

If it's owner occupied, you're fine to close it however you want.Not legal advice: https://hoplerwilms.com/blog/2023/11/20/what-is-the-garn-st-...

Leave that loan in place, as long as you've occupied the house for at least one year, you're good to go. 

.: The available/start date is the day the unit is ready for a tenant to occupy.

This means you’re effectively living for free, or close to it, while building equity in your property.Low-Cost Entry into Real Estate InvestingBecause you're living in the property, you can qualify for owner-occupied financing.

Lots of crime over there, I'd say best bet would be 1 occupied and 1 vacant.

Properties formerly occupied by the owner are always the hardest for us to onboard (We do STR and MTR property management).