I am a newer investor with a duplex and living in a SFH to eventually be a rental.

My goal is to eventually get to shopping centers and strip malls. 

If you're running a fix & flip business, you'll eventually want to learn how to estimate repairs and independently prepare a scope of work.

(One went with another manager eventually, and the property is listed for $400/month less than we listed it, and the other finally got rented to a solo professional.)

I’m currently in the process of searching for my first property, which I hope to house hack and eventually convert into a long-term rental. 

@Dan AudinoFor path #1, is your eventual goal to rent out the property?

So eventually this negative cash flow property becomes cash flow positive and pays for itself including property taxes, hoa, mortgage etc.Trying to calculate how bad is my investment here or should i sell out if there is appreciation 

I am looking for a solid real estate agent and eventually will need a home inspector, possible property manager/etc. in regards to the process.I have a few family friends which I am blessed to have mentored me the past few years in this field and I am determined/diligent to learn and grow. 

Our instincts are to eventually rent it and use the income for payment assistance on a new home mortgage.

Just know that it is a "no days off" kind of business and very mechanical.I would suggest documenting your process via video so that eventually you can bring people on to replace the different hats you will be wearing.Keep in mind of these 5 components of any wholesale business.lead generation, deal sourcing, underwriting, marketing, transaction coordination.