Understood I made a bad move here as this was first investment so didnt think much except at the location for longterm growth or possibly I move there as part relocation.

I am going to put this as bluntly as possible:  Condominiums in the Smokies are not good investments.

In some cases, it may not be possible to purchase and store materials, but if it is, that is one way to protect your budget and avoid a costly mistake.The last thing I would offer for you to think about is having a pivot plan. 

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

So I would suggest keeping your STR property geographically close and doing as much as possible to keep your profit% high as possible.As far as the actual house you use, I would just say - be honest, be fair and strive for the best area, most amenities, cleanest house, best communication, and any other extras you can get.

I would love to convert my duplex to a triplex if possible.

Due to the current interest rates, you probably can't live for free, but you can definitely learn how to house hack in that first year, reduced your personal housing costs, learn the rent by room/co-living strategy on-site, and then probably break-even after move out, but most importantly, it is possible to make that work in 2025 with today's rates.It just takes being open-minded and willing to be flexible for the 1st year.  

Is it possible to purchase real estate with no money down?

-The mention of syndication being less risky than HML...I'd suggest it is more risk, possibly much much more since you don't know whether you are good or bad at vetting the operator right now.

Your ability to connect with them on a personal level matters more than your offer.Think about it:  • The “Used Car Salesman” is only focused on closing the deal as fast as possible.