Sorry IDK why, but I never got a notification about your post...Our timing was terrible as we wrapped up in the holidays (note to self lol), and traffic has been slow, but those that have applied have been really interested and with one exception, pretty good quality renters.I'm still looking for renters for 1 of the 3 (and one has a short term renter till summer). 

You mentioned wanting to house hack so i think this might apply for you. do some research on your particular state but i know that in my state i can purchase a multifamily home with a FHB program as long as it doesn't have over 4 units and i live in one of them.

Apply the BRRRR on it - buy, rehab, rent, refinance (and pay back the LOC to make it ready for next good deal), repeat.

If answer to my question#2 is a Yes then can I apply for GST/HST rebate at the end of the year when I file my taxes?

The term is kind of toothless anyway, because building code generally applies to when the property was built.

I don't recall the details but in some situations Fair housing does not apply. 

They mentioned I could apply for a variance but it’s costly and I may not be approved. 

I'm having trouble applying the BRRRR strategy because there is no increase in value to cash-out refinance.  

It eats into cash flow, we may have difficulty saving for our next down payment,, and I am worried that the large mortgage will affect our debt to income ratio when we apply for a loan for our next property.I am also concerned about paying too much for the property as there are no solid comps in the area. 

What I did was to apply for a full Broker's License and was granted that license from all my personal transactions I have done over 21 years.Thanks New York State!