If there are barriers that limit similar supply and you figure out how to get the housing units online, even better. 

I’ve found success by networking at local meetups, connecting with real estate agents, and exploring online platforms to discover these opportunities.

If you purchase online, find a retailer that has the delivery window at the point of purchase.

A good tip is to reach out to contractors, visit local supply stores, and check out online resources for cost ranges.

When I did an online search for commercial multifamily lenders, most have a minimum lending requirement of $1M and I don't need that much. 

A lot of that is referral based or people find my site online, organically. 

Quickbooks online could work for what you need.  

But i guess in today's world where things are on line and investors are used to Internet communications this is much easier than those days.

I just can't find ANYTHING online that isn't from Chris or his team. 

The only way to answer that in general (whether house hacking in today's market is still a good option) or for a particular property, is to learn how to run the numbers and analyze a specific property to see whether it will be able to stand on its own as an investment when you move out someday.There are a lot of resources here on BP for doing that but I'd just say, make sure the assumptions you're putting into your spreadsheet or deal analyzer are realistic.Make sure the rents (especially for vacant units or pro-forma #s) are realistic by doing your own rent comps; make sure the mortgage rate is realistic by doing some research online and/or talking to some mortgage folks; make sure insurance #s are realistic by getting a couple of quotes for the # of units and zip code / area you're looking in; etc.I hope that helps, and good luck 😊