It would also be my primary residence, looking to get started in a du/tri/fourplex and live in it for 2-3 years until my girlfriend discovers where she'll be matched for her residency.

@Ian Hoover Hi Ian, I would make sure to look for methods, procedures, and management style that will match up with you're investing sentiment.

And I met a lot of agents this way so I learned which ones I felt were a good match for me

Now I only put enough money into 401k to get the maximum match. 

Find one with a portfolio that matches your types of properties and see if they will supply any references (other property owners) that you can speak with. 

Keep in mind that any new shingles you put on will almost certainly not match the existing.

The leverage you can have in real estate has no match elsewhere. 

Hence the bank wanting higher coverage.Some lenders will let you get away with dwelling coverage at least matching the loan amount but realize - if it burns down the bank is taking your insurance check to settle the loan balance and you will have a free and clear title to a burnt down house.

Hi @Jack Brown,The table below provides the requirements for second home properties. must be occupied by the borrower for some portion of the yearis restricted to one-unit dwellingsmust be suitable for year-round occupancythe borrower must have exclusive control over the propertymust not be rental property or a timeshare arrangementcannot be subject to any agreements that give a management firm control over the occupancy of the propertyIncidentally, it reads to me like a model match for places that you're going to have as a furnished rental or airbnb part of the year, and a spot for your family to vacation for part of the year too.

Of course you'll have to make sure your personalities match, but knowing the market is of utmost importance.