If it serves more as an investment opportunity and you aren't so much worried about the living conditions you may be able to explore lower priced or potentially better deals numbers wise.If it'll serve more as a short-term living situation and you're less worried about the numbers then the deals you look at may not be as good.There shouldn't be any reason why you can't accomplish a relatively high degree of both but the more information the local pro has, the better he/she can help you accomplish your goals. 

We focus on apartments / residential rentals.4) I would explore what options you have with lenders.

I am exploring an entry into real estate investing via the House-Hacking method, and am eager to begin building out my network.

Here is a the NATP (National Association of Tax Pros) annual survey of fees for 2019https://www.natptax.com/explore/Documents/2019-NATP-FeeStudy.pdf

Have you explored other options?  

As a new RE investor, I don’t feel comfortable exploring too far outside of where I live just yet.

The second property is just under contract and we are exploring our financing options.

Have you explored local/regional bank? 

I am in commercial construction and will be exploring employment options/companies in advance as well. 

I'd explore whether your CPA feels that the quid pro quo of rent for caretaking along with a strategy of holding for appreciation feels good to them.But Natalie @Mark H.