Great tools that get updated regularly.I am on the lending side of things and would be happy to hop on a call with you anytime to discuss financial strategies and help answer any questions you may have about nearly any loan product available to help you on your journey, even if they are not products my capital partners offer.We are all here to help you learn and grow.

The factors to consider are your overall objectives, your credit score, DTI and personal financial condition I recommend you find a broker or originator whom you can trust and have them weigh your options.

I think real estate is very forgiving (1) over the LONG term and (2) if you're well capitalized / in a strong financial position. 

Dennis' dad and I actually tripped over something similar back in Chandler.. we learned to tap into city planning websites and even call the permit offices directly to get a real sense of their backlogs.

If it’s 4 units you’d always want the residential loan with the 30 year fixed rate, especially if you plan to live there.

If you're planning to invest locally, I highly recommend it.

To do this legally, I know plans need to be drawn and submitted to the Planning Board.

Instead of debates and personal opinion, look for proof https://www.ladbs.org/docs/default-source/forms/plan-check-2017/single-family-dwelling-duplex-plan-review-list.pdf under G (Interior Env) which defines the minimum requirement of a habitable room (aka bedroom or bathroom).

I have drafted plans for covered patios and decks in Coronado, City and County of SD.

I'm planning to use that money for a downpayment  to buy a multifamily where I would live in one side and rent out the other side.