I suggest you form an answer for each, @Jonathan Warner.

I suggest getting a job anywhere and saving your money to then invest.

With regard to renovations, I always suggest taking incremental steps to bigger renovations or partnering with someone who has already done a renovation at that level.I've been known to just go for the big rehabs for my personal investments here in Chicago , and during that process, it's always more stressful than it needs to be...As far as navigating the competition, I've found the best thing I can do is get EXTREMELY CLEAR  on what I am looking for; then I am confident pulling the trigger quicky. 

I know I'm not the only one looking for this.Any ideas or suggestions?

I’m a contrarian but I’d suggest Columbus.

I would choose the agent who suggested the higher price.

What other loans might you suggest for House hacking? 

Your feedback has given me clarity and your suggestions offered once implemented will mitigate some risks.I'm waiting on the rent roll and supporting documents for further analysis.

Do you have any suggestions on how we can secure long-term financing under these circumstances?

As a real estate broker I would make the same suggestion but as a buyer I feel so lost..