We use a flat fee listing agent to save on standard seller commission which allows us the option to offer a higher commission to the buyer's agent

I've been doing this for 20 years, and I still think buying existing properties is the best option.

Depending on what you are wanting long term the househack is a great option as well and depending on your situation you might be able to also keep your house in Salem and buy up here. 

Check in with @Joseph Chiofalo for some construction financing options.

My husband and I have narrowed down our options and I would love some feedback from all of you wonderful people.  

I really like the equation, though, because it does encourage/provide the idea that house hacking can truly increase your personal net worth and be a better option than for example  (having a relatively higher income in town A but you rent versus lower income in town B but you house hack -- the NWROI may tell you house hack in town B!

Lots of other EP options for building the box are available now.  

This might entail buying a single-family home with rental potential and living in one area while renting out the other units, or it could entail buying a multifamily property and living in one apartment while renting out the others.Financing Options: Look into traditional mortgages, FHA loans (for home hacking), and other inventive financing techniques.

I have some great lender options here.

For example, if it was a ten year lease starting in 2017, then you would need to honor it through 2027 - if there was also tenant options to renew then those also would need to be required to be honored.