I am from the Midwest area too specifically Ohio.

Get a contractor involved early to look at your renovation plan.

Specifically asking about public safety, appreciation vs. cash flow thoughts, and complexity of building a local team (agent, property manager, general contractor).

Again, my post specifically dealt with the general theme of this thread. 

I want to begin investing with a house hack, but more generally use this position (with it specifically being in the RE industry) as a jumping-off point for a career in investing, eventually full-time. 

Hey Eddie, happy to connect with you and hear more about the specifics.

This is a Maryland Historical Property, zoned for residential high density, with specific limitations on its usage due to its zoning.The property is massive, offering 8,276 square ft of space, including 5,445 square ft of finished area, and it features a substantial driveway.

I could also leave a unit within the multifamily property vacant when I am abroad to use for storage if needed, to better help solidify the "primary residence" requirement.This is a pretty specific question, so I haven't been able to find any previous posts on it or any helpful literature online.

This can be advantageous if you have a solid investment plan but less-than-perfect personal credit. 

Probably not the help you are specifically looking for, but hope this helps.