In other words, these sources claim that you can't buy a property solely for investment purposes (like renting it out) without living in it yourself.Is anyone familiar with this law or regulation?

Are utilities included in the rent price for MTRs? 

Sell, pocket $200k in equity, appreciation since they bought it, bank 25% for a new deposit in a year once they repair credit, buy two new second hand cars because they need them, pay off credit card debt, put a little extra to the side for increased rent payments for next 12 months, and reorganize to buy in 12-18 months... now they see the light, a chance to move forward, to not stress, and they're lucky the market increased so much... but if they struggle to keep it, struggle to make payments, then 10 months realize they need to sell, would they have as much equity, maybe, maybe not..  

Balloons coming due with higher interest rates, China market, China production, Manufacturing production moving back to the US, Worker shortages, Workert pay hikes, Ukraine/Russia food and fertilizer misses, Oil prices increasing due to the OPEC Q1 production curtailments in place, Houthi issues, Panama Canal Water issues, Illegal immigration impact (buy one of those office buildings and rent for $10mm per year for Illegal housing, take advantage) social benefits required, Climate change believe it or not- Buy or sell into that thought process,  US politics, Baby boomers leaving workforce and needing more benefits, Baby Boomers moving from Stocks to Bonds,  etc.I agree things will get worse, but that means more investing opportunities. 

A friend was renting a place in Denver, and just purchased a home.

A fixer upper would be more likely to get a deal on.Certain areas like Orlando are very saturated and therefore competitive to keep rented at a good price.Research insurance premiums because they have gone through the roof in Florida and other areas.

How much rent credit each month?

These have the highest rent to price ratio and have minimal cap ex since they are new.Another option would be to buy a short term rental, but that is going to be more expensive and is more active than long term rentals.

Many investors do great putting a "tiny home" or cottage on their property and renting it on Airbnb.

Purchase price: $240,000 Cash invested: $30,000 Rent to own BRRR.