A single-family home or small multi-unit property can be a great way to dip your toes in the water.Build a Team: Even if you’re planning to handle most things yourself, having a good real estate agent, property manager (if needed), and a reliable handyman can make life so much easier.Learn the Local Laws: Pensacola is pretty investor-friendly, but it’s always good to know local zoning laws and short-term rental regulations if you’re thinking about Airbnb or VRBO.Run the Numbers: Make sure you’re clear on the property’s cash flow potential.

I've done it twice in Reno, NV and it's changed my life. 

When I got started with real estate 9 years ago, I was living and working in and around Boston.

It may be that it works quite well at the asking price. 

. - The ultimate house hack, live in the small ADU unit and rent out the two levels of the main house on AirBnb in San Francisco (I would have thought STRs are oversaturated in S.F. but it worked for them and they stay fully booked).

again, not sure if we're talking about the same thing or not. i assumed you meant using the low interest loan for the down payment, and a DSCR loan for the balance. 

This is how government is supposed to work.

Zillow has a lot of valuable information, but keep in mind that it's algorythms don't work in every market. 

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

Do not forget to prepare the balance sheet, track distributions etc.