Many states have discounted property taxes and lower yearly increases for owner occupied properties.

So in that a much lower rate of return is acceptable given the safety and certainty level of things. 

--------------------------------------I don't think it prevents you as an owner from initiating the action.Personally, I wouldn't have any moratoriums on private transactions.  

I invest primarily in a lower cost area but also own property in, and am looking in, a higher cost area.

If you're open to purchasing out of state and hiring a property manager, you can find solid single-family rentals in lower cost-of-living markets.

I have some of the required funds in a HYSA, but will most likely need to draw from another account and I'm curious which method is the most efficient in terms of taxes/capital gains, penalties, loan repayments, etc.Based on my previous transactions in the market, I estimate ~$45k cash to close: $20k for the down payment, $15k for closing costs and prepaids, and $10k of starting reserves.

It’s temporarily lost its shine because of the slow down in transactions.

I'd bet that this note is worth more to you than to most buyers until the note is much lower LTV, but I'm a novice in this space.

The salespeople tell you they will keep in touch and hold your hand through the transactions but they will not contact you after they get you to pay unless you have capital for a deal of theirs.

Obviously you want to lower expenses while maximizing revenue.