Many people choose to go the cash method route because it is much more simple, but there are drawbacks to using either method. 

Ive been doing a brrr method there and have a local team that helps.

What is your best method of determining hot rental areas?

We really love the BRRR method and see that being the method we will choose to acquire our properties. 

@Jonathan EscobarIn the situation you described, most people do the BRRRR method.

I wanted to switch my method to taking out a mortgage and house hacking it to build wealth through that, but I dont have the time to build my credit (I have since started paying my monthly balance on the student loans and have opened a credit card and am making payments for the full amount)(I have seen noticeable jumps in my score since starting these payments).

Owner agrees to grant access to the Property for appraisals sought by Buyer, but if the Property is leased to one or more third parties Owner agrees only to request that the tenant(s) grant such access; this Agreement is NOT CONTINGENT upon the conduct or results of any appraisal.”I am exploring ways to get away from the contract and not lose my deposit.Thank you

Usually they will search for apartment brokers or commercial real estate brokers that specialize in apartments  so you're going to need to approach it from that angle.The most effective method to find off market deals is to call the owners directly.

I’m in a bit of a unique situation, so I was just exploring my options.

@Justin Dyer 2 things:1- I am a partner in a property management company in Richmond, VA and invest in Richmond using the BRRRR method.