As Jason points out, for 5-unit + purchase you'd need a commercial loan (vs. conventional), and so you could expect higher rates and probably not the fixed 30 year variety, and this could further hinder your cash flow. 

Tons of little components to a variety of strategies with this, but that could be your general plan to get started. 

There are a variety of ways to house hack (small multifamilies, being a resident manager for lower rent, renting a room, short term rentals, etc). 

I could use this to make down payments on multiple properties, or I could do a downpayment plus rehab costs on any variety, SFH, multi, etc.  

I'm interested in Minneapolis for a variety of reasons and have a couple of questions about the area - if anyone could help me out, I would appreciate it!

There are a variety of markets and properties to choose from in Maine and with some thorough research, you can find one the works for you. 

I have worked with several people over the years in a variety of different situations.

We have met a great variety of people in the area who are well established in their lives.Recently, we realized we weren't saving and have started!

Also, a resource that I've found very helpful are the BP Podcast episodes, as they share a wealth of knowledge from investors who use a variety of strategies to invest.  

I ask because I'm find a wealth of information on a variety of topics and in combination with bp, I am absorbing so much.