Many have pulled out of insuring multifamily properties or only cover up to 4-unit buildings.While Allstate doesn’t have a unit cap, they do cap total coverage at $750K on a landlord policy—which is why I’m exploring options for supplemental coverage.The carrier raised my rate by ~86% on all three properties under this policy.

Especially since I’m already the one choosing rates/terms. 

When financing these projects, keep in mind that some lenders may require a larger down payment or charge higher interest rates due to the increased risk.

You can test this, by asking some to SHOW you how they calculate ROI, Cap Rates, Cash-on-Cash, etc., for their clients.Many will say, "that's the investor's problem".They are correct because an investor should NOT rely anyone else to run their numbers.So, then what exactly makes them investor-friendly?

The big pro that sticks out to me in Birmingham is the tax rate. 

Under this scenario which strategy has the highest vacancy rates.  

You can generally get the best terms (max leverage and best rates) on an owner-occupied house.

House hacking is a great beginning step in investing.

Good point - At least in FL, since I am licensed I can pay to the other agent's broker legally.We pay the same regardless if it is an RE agent or not, i.e. we pay that same rate to friends, family, current clients, vendors, etc.

Cash is always going to be king, but the delta is definitely more pronounced in higher interest rate environments.