it's just easier than the more advanced strategies...House hacking still takes significant due diligence, skill in analyzing the market and the property, time and effort to learn about tenant screening and property management, the ability to anticipate appreciation/depreciation trends, etc., etc., etc....and even with lots of skill and preparation, things will still go wrong (vacancy, plumbing leaks, bad tenants, etc.)

Another quick cheat method is go to a new build model homes in your area (trends are geographic) they usually have 3 styles of finishes you can choose from, just snap a picture so you can decided latter on your dream home (LOL)I also cruise zillow/ mls for other flip houses in my area and save pictures of the style I like. 

I’m a 16 year old based in the ATL area of georgia and have noticed a trend among most people my age who aren’t as worried about their future as me.

A lot of sellers (and their Realtors) still don't get the market is correcting and that prices are trending downward.

The house was perfect and in great shape.

HVAC, roof, etc.if you buy something in great condition, and you have it inspected, and the inspector tells you everything is new / in tip top shape... great, but then you'll still have these items. 

This way I know what to offer based on sales trend.

A lot of houses I looked in the JC area are either old/outdated or in bad shape and need tons of work.

This trend is nationwide.

Yes and in-of-itself you might say it is slightly flat to down (no big trend).